DEC 31

Revelation 22
Memorise Revelation 22:20
“…Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”

Back in my days in teenz, I heard a brother say that, while he looks forward to Christ’s return, he would rather it not be too soon because he wanted to enjoy life first, get married, do all the things he hopes to achieve in life. I’m sure that many other young people in the prime of life would have a similar mindset too.

We read in the book of Revelation that Jesus has promised His people that “Surely I come quickly”. There is no uncertainty, no ‘maybe’ about it – we can be absolutely sure that Jesus will indeed come again. John’s response to this promise is something that we ought to learn from. He says, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus”. Expressed in this simple statement is a sense of deep, intense longing for Christ – to be in His presence, to see Him face to face, to finally be free of all sin and imperfection in our mortal bodies. Such a desire was expressed by the Apostle Paul too, when he spoke of his “desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better” (Philippians 1:23).

Yet, not everyone will be looking forward to Christ’s coming. The promise of Christ’s return is mentioned also in Revelation 22:12, accompanied by an assurance that “my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be”. To those who have been serving diligently, they would certainly be looking forward to being rewarded for their faithful labor. But for those who have not, the eagerness would be replaced with fear and reluctance. No servant who knows he has yet unfinished or poorly completed work would want to face the disappointment and displeasure of his master.

How about you, dear teen? Are you eagerly and joyously anticipating the Lord’s return? Are you among those described by the Apostle Paul that “love his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8)? Or would you rather Him delay His coming by a few more years? Perhaps you want to enjoy the pleasures of this life for a bit longer, or perhaps you know deep down in your heart that your life is not ready for His return. Perhaps you are not even sure that when Christ returns, He would bring you back to heaven as one of His people. Dear teen, may you seriously reflect on your life today, and ensure that you do sincerely and earnestly desire the Lord’s return.

Thought: “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”
Prayer: Gracious heavenly Father, may we be ready for the soul’s bright home.