Something to Really Look Forward ToSample

The Living Will Be Taken Up

Last time, we explored what will happen when you and I die, and we touched on the possibility that Christ may return before we die. Most people consider that to be less likely, but it’s a very real possibility. After all, Jesus promised that He would be back.

So, imagine you get up tomorrow, on a day like any other day, but completely unbeknownst to you it’s not just any day. It’s the day that God decides to send Jesus back to this earth. Here’s the question: If you believe in Jesus and you’re still alive on that day when Jesus returns, what’s it going to be like? And more importantly, what’s going to happen to you on that day? Well, the Bible has the answers. 

The Apostle Paul describes it this way: “Listen, I will tell you a mystery! We will not all die, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For this perishable body must put on imperishability, and this mortal body must put on immortality.” (1 Corinthians 15:51–53)

I don’t know whether you’re enjoying your life so much that you’re completely immersed in it, or whether you’re having such a rotten time that you’re overcome with misery, or whether you’re somewhere in between. Wherever you are, whatever’s going on in your world, if you believe in Jesus, you have a certain hope that Jesus is coming back for you soon. And that makes all the difference.

Yet so many of us are so caught up in our day-to-day reality that our hearts aren’t filled with the hope of Jesus’ imminent return. And I have to tell you, that is such a tragedy. Listen to what Paul says:

“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” (Colossians 3:2–3)

So, come on. Set your gaze, your vision, your hopes, and your dreams on the things that are above, on the certain hope you have. Because Jesus is coming—ready or not.

Life application questions: 

· Have you ever considered the possibility that Jesus could return in your lifetime? Do you think it’s likely? Why or why not?

· Spend some time writing down the things you’re most looking forward to. What’s on the list? If Jesus were to return tomorrow, would you feel robbed or rewarded?

· How would living with your eyes fixed on eternal things change the way you live tomorrow? 

· Read through Colossians again and allow the words to sink into your heart. Ask God to help you set your hope, your dreams, your future in Him.