Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
The Glorious Appearance of Christ and the vigilant disciples
Bible portion: Rev. 22: 1-21
Devotion:
Devotion:
The Mar Thoma Church, during Holy Communion liturgy congregation, proclaims, "O Lord, we remember your death, we celebrate your resurrection, and we look forward to your second coming." Christ's return has been one of the most essential aspects of the Christian faith. The book of Revelation emphasizes that Jesus is coming soon and is ready with preparedness. In Rev.22, three times, Jesus says, "I am coming soon!" (v.7,12,20). It indicates Jesus' second coming will be sure, as the scripture says repeatedly. How can we effectively prepare for the second coming of Christ? We can prepare for Christ's return by being resilient and reforming.
One way to prepare for Christ's return is by cultivating resilience. Rev. 22:7 states, "Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll." This verse underscores the importance of remaining faithful to the scripture. St. Paul's words in Romans 8:18 further reinforce this, "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." In this world, we will inevitably face troubles, challenges, and crises. However, when we keep in mind the glory that will be revealed in us, we can stand firm in our faith, demonstrating resilience.
Another way to prepare for Christ's return is through a commitment to reforming. Rev. 22:12issues a warning and an invitation, "Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to their actions." This warning serves as a call for us to live a life of continuous reform. Reform is not a one-time event but a perpetual process. Sin remains active in this world, but Christ has already overcome it. St. Paul's words in Romans 12:2 echo this sentiment, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God…." This verse underscores the need for continuous reform in our lives, a key aspect of preparing for Christ's return.
One way to prepare for Christ's return is by cultivating resilience. Rev. 22:7 states, "Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll." This verse underscores the importance of remaining faithful to the scripture. St. Paul's words in Romans 8:18 further reinforce this, "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." In this world, we will inevitably face troubles, challenges, and crises. However, when we keep in mind the glory that will be revealed in us, we can stand firm in our faith, demonstrating resilience.
Another way to prepare for Christ's return is through a commitment to reforming. Rev. 22:12issues a warning and an invitation, "Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to their actions." This warning serves as a call for us to live a life of continuous reform. Reform is not a one-time event but a perpetual process. Sin remains active in this world, but Christ has already overcome it. St. Paul's words in Romans 12:2 echo this sentiment, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God…." This verse underscores the need for continuous reform in our lives, a key aspect of preparing for Christ's return.
Prayer:
Father God, thank you for all the Bible promises you have given us. Maranatha – Come, Lord Jesus! Amen.
Rev. Biju P. Simon – Philadelphia Mar Thoma Church