The Most Important JourneySample

Day 22

by Brian Adleman

Pastor, Seacoast Irmo Campus

His Promised Return

So Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him. ~ Hebrews 9:28 (ESV)

Christmas Eve has arrived—the night of Jesus’ miraculous birth. It’s time to celebrate our Savior coming into our midst, into our chaos. Yet, what is so amazing to me is that this marked the first of his appearances on Earth. Jesus, born of a human mother and God, our Father, set in motion a journey that would change the world, bringing peace, love, and joy. To fulfill this mission, he would ultimately sacrifice his life, only to rise again three days later, offering salvation to all who believed in him. It was a huge turning point in history for all believers.

However, the wildest part of this story lies in the last portion of that verse: "…will appear a second time." This passage points to the Second Coming of Christ, the anticipation of Jesus' return to Earth. He will come back to rescue those who patiently await his arrival. In addition to celebrating his first coming, Advent is about waiting for his return.

And much like his first coming, we will not know the precise hour or day. It won't fit our personal timetables. The key message here is not to focus solely on that event. The disciples once believed it would occur in their lifetime, but the actual timeline remains uncertain. All we can do is be prepared for his promised return, for when he creates a new heaven and a new earth.

What we can do now is seize the moment, spread love, share the Gospel, and reflect on those who led us to Christ. Think about how you can introduce him to others before that time comes. Share the Christmas story. Your testimony. Christ, I believe, is patiently waiting, eager to welcome as many people as possible. Yet, he has entrusted us with the task of being the vessels that guide them to him.

Today, we linger in Bethlehem, but we are not called to stay there. We are called to follow Jesus out into the world. Let’s celebrate the birth of our Savior. Cherish the moment, share the love, and hold fast to the hope of a beautiful reception when Christ appears once more.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Reflect: How are you helping others prepare for Christ’s return? Who in your life needs to hear the Christmas story of Christ’s first coming?