JESUS: THE KING RETURNING IN GLORY
The Bible paints a vivid picture of Jesus’ arrival on earth not once, but twice. His first coming, documented in the Gospels, marked a transformational moment – a humble arrival as a human being offering salvation through repentance and faith. Yet, the story doesn’t end there. Christians eagerly await His glorious return, a future event referred to as the Second Coming.
The Vision of Daniel
The prophet Daniel, granted a glimpse into the future, described a majestic figure descending from the heavens: “I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed” (Dan 7:13-14). Daniel’s vision portrays Christ’s ultimate reign, one that is eternal and encompasses all nations and peoples.
Jesus’ Prediction
Jesus Himself spoke of this momentous return. During His Last Supper with the disciples, He offered a comforting promise: “In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also” (Jn 14:2-3). He alluded to not just a return, but a glorious one, where He would establish His kingdom in its fullness:
“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats” (Mt 25:31-32). “Then he will repay everyone according to his conduct” (Mt 16:27). These passages underscore the purpose of the Second Coming – the just separation of believers and unbelievers and the rewarding of each according to their deeds.
The Revelation of John
The apostle John, exiled on the isle of Patmos, echoed this vision: “Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, even those who pierced him, and all tribes of the earth will mourn because of him. So shall it be! Amen” (Rev 1:7). John reinforces the universal visibility of Christ’s return, a sight that will pierce the hearts of many. He envisions a moment when Christ returns with the holy angels, manifesting His Father’s glory.
REFLECTION
The Second Coming of Christ is not merely a distant event for Christians to passively await. It represents the culmination of God’s redemptive plan, filled with hope for the faithful. The Bible portrays it as a reunion of believers with Christ, a glorious inheritance after a lifetime of following His teachings. This promise should invigorate our faith and inspire us to live according to God’s will.
As we approach the unknown hour of His return, let us strive to embody the qualities that Jesus emphasized: love, compassion, forgiveness, and service to others. Sharing the Gospel message and living a life that reflects Christ’s teachings become even more crucial.
The Bible reminds us that the day and hour of Christ’s return are unknown (Mt 24:36). This serves as a powerful call to action. We cannot afford to procrastinate on our spiritual growth. Instead, let this anticipation drive us to be vigilant and diligent in our faith. By embracing Christ’s teachings and living a life guided by faith, we prepare ourselves not out of fear but out of joyful anticipation for the glorious return of our King.
May we be found among the faithful, hearing the blessed words: “Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world” (Mt 25:34). Let us live each day in the light of this hope, ready for the glorious return of our Savior, Jesus Christ.