< Back

Read: 2 Timothy 4:8
Listen: 2 Timothy 4

Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:8

Paul longs for Christ’s return. He looks forward to being with Jesus in heaven and the day Jesus returns to earth to fully establish God’s kingdom. Paul knows one day, Jesus will restore and heal all that is broken. Paul spends his life sharing the good news of Jesus and, by doing so, participates in building God’s kingdom here and now through one changed life at a time. Paul also knows that Jesus has promised recognition and reward for those who remain faithful to him.

Throughout the New Testament, the authors anticipate the day Jesus returns and puts to right all that sin has undone. In the book of Revelation, God gives the Apostle John a vision of what the restored world will look like under Jesus’s reign. Jesus ends John’s vision with a promise to return soon. John cries, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20). We, too, are called to long for Jesus’s return and live in light of his coming. It’s not about earning salvation but living out of gratitude for what Jesus has done. When our hearts are transformed by Jesus, we long for his return and desire to run our race in a manner that brings his kingdom here and now.

TODAY: Spend time reflecting on what a restored earth will look like. Linger on these thoughts. Then, spend time praying for Jesus’s return. Ask him to help you live with longing for his return. Bring your challenges and heartaches to Jesus, and echo John’s prayer, “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20).

JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read 2 Samuel 13-14. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Note the division in David’s house and who becomes his enemy.