Have you ever wondered how to live your life with purpose and urgency? If you’re like most of us, you might find yourself caught up in the daily grind, forgetting the bigger picture. But what if I told you that every day brings us closer to the most significant event in history—the return of Jesus? This isn’t just a distant theological concept; it’s a reality that should shape how we live each day.
In our recent sermon, we explored the profound message from Hebrews 10:19-25 and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11, which calls us to live with a sense of urgency and hope. The main point is clear: as Christians, we are to live in anticipation of Jesus’ return, letting our lives reflect His love and truth. This isn’t just about waiting; it’s about actively engaging with the world around us, sharing the hope we have in Christ.
Living with Purpose and Anticipation
The Bible tells us that Jesus’ return is not a matter of “if” but “when.” This truth should ignite a fire within us, compelling us to live with purpose and urgency. Imagine penciling in “Jesus’ return” on your calendar every day. While we don’t know the exact time, living with this mindset keeps us focused on what truly matters.
Paul’s message to the Thessalonians reminds us that we are children of the light, called to live in a way that reflects our faith. This means being spiritually alert, self-controlled, and ready to face any challenge with a clear mind fixed on Jesus. It’s about being intentional in our daily walk, whether we’re at the grocery store, filling up our gas tank, or simply interacting with others. Every moment is an opportunity to share the love and hope of Christ.
Facing Grief with Hope
Life is filled with challenges, and grief is a part of our human experience. But as believers, we grieve with hope. The resurrection of Jesus assures us that death is not the end. We have the promise of eternal life with Him. This hope transforms our sorrow, giving us strength to face tomorrow with confidence.
Paul encourages us to comfort one another with these words, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey. We are part of a community that supports and uplifts each other, especially in times of loss. This is the beauty of the church—a place where we can find encouragement and strength to keep moving forward.
Conclusion
The message is simple yet profound: live with hope and urgency, knowing that Jesus is coming back. What will you do this week to reflect this truth in your life? How can you be a beacon of hope to those around you? Remember, it’s not just about waiting; it’s about actively living out your faith every day.
Let’s commit to being intentional in our walk with Christ, sharing His love and hope with everyone we encounter. As we do, we’ll find that life is truly worth living, not just for today, but for eternity.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the hope we have in Jesus. Help us to live each day with purpose and urgency, reflecting Your love to the world around us. Give us the strength to face challenges with confidence, knowing that our future is secure in You. May we be a source of encouragement and hope to others, as we eagerly await the return of our Savior. In Jesus’ name, Amen.