SOMETHING TO GET EXCITED ABOUT

"And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." - Revelation 22:12

I admit that I am bothered about many things these days.  Political upheaval, racial unrest, violence, substance abuse and judicial rulings have many Americans stirred up.  It is troubling to see riots in the streets and people behaving so irresponsibly. 

On social media, there are passionate postings about personal views on these subjects.  While every American has the right to express themselves, I can't help but wonder why so many of my Christian friends on Facebook write more about their political views than about Jesus.  If you look at their Facebook wall, it is obvious where they stand on a number of issues, but spiritual content is rare to find.  It seems like they are more passionate about politics than they are about the Lord.

With all of the events going on in our world, I fear that many are missing the big picture. You see, any serious student of the Bible can recognize that Bible prophecy is unfolding before our very eyes. 

In the final book of the Bible, our Lord said, "And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be."  While many fuss and fume over politics & others zealously debate the issues of healthcare and the economy, the true followers of Jesus should be passionate about His soon return.  That is something to get excited about!

As we ponder the words of our Lord, we learn two important facts:

1.  JESUS IS RETURNING QUICKLY

Jesus said, "... behold, I come quickly..."  Jesus is returning in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye.  When He comes, it will be too late to prepare.  Most individuals will not expect his return.  Despite the relevance of current events, most are oblivious to the spiritual implications.  For those of us who follow Christ, we should be excited that the Lord's return is at hand.

Just as a bride looks forward with great anticipation to her wedding day, the Bride of Christ should be looking for the return of the Bridegroom, Jesus Christ.  The wedding of the Lamb is at hand!

2.  JESUS IS COMING TO REWARD US

Our Lord's return includes a time of reward.  Our stewardship will be examined and rewarded.  Notice that Jesus used the word, "reward," in the singular form:  "... my reward is with me."  In this verse, Jesus doesn't specify what this reward will be.  From other passages, we know that crowns will be given one day. 

As we look with anticipation for His return, we should also be focused upon our stewardship.  Let us be busy working in His vineyard as we await His arrival.  There is much to do in the little time that remains.  Many souls need Jesus.  Many saints need help & encouragement.  Let's get busy in the Name of the Lord! 

Realizing that Jesus is coming very soon & He will reward our stewardship, we should heed the Apostle Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 15:58:  "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

For the child of God, the Lord's return will not be a sad occasion, but a glorious event ... and it may happen any moment.

That's something to get excited about!