Saturday, November 24, 2012
Revelation 22:20 "Surely I come quickly." Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.
THANKFUL FOR HIS SECOND COMING
At this time of year we can get a little sentimental. We remember family gatherings of long ago. We think about friends that we haven't seen in years, some of whom we may never see again on this side of eternity. Just last week my dear old German teacher, Mrs. Adelgunde Schaller, left this world to be with her Savior. Many will miss her.
There's another person I miss very much. Though my life rests safely in His nail-scarred hands, I've never felt the warmth of his hands clasp mine in friendship. Though I see Him every day with eyes of faith, I've never seen what He looks like. Even though He speaks daily to me in His Word, I've never, with my ears, heard Him laugh, sing, or whisper.
No, I've never seen Jesus with the eyes in my head, but one day I will. It's no sentimental wish. My confidence rests in His sure Word. I will see Him coming in the clouds with all His mighty angels.
The Bible says He will bring with Him all who fell asleep in His arms, all who died trusting in His blood and righteousness for forgiveness and salvation. What a family reunion that will be! Among the happy multitude will be beloved family members, friends, old German teachers. Others will be people we've never met, yet still know, like Moses and Paul, Mary and Ruth, and so many more. Still others will be those of whom the world has completely forgotten -- dear saints, like us, with whom we will share our Father's home forever.
Jesus is coming soon! What a wonder that He comes for a sinner like me! What a joy to know that when I see Him He will dry every tear from my eyes. Because of Him I need not fear that Day when the universe will be shaken and all things will melt in the fire of His judgment. As we close out this Thanksgiving week, let us look up with yearning hope. He's coming. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
Even so, Lord, quickly come To Thy final Harvest-home;
Gather Thou Thy people in, Free from sorrow, free from sin,
There, forever purified, In Thy garner to abide.
Come with all Thine angels, come, Raise the glorious Harvest-home.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 574:4)
