Dear Friends,

READ REVELATION 19:1 THROUGH 22:21

“I’ll be back soon,” Helen told her husband, Earl.

He knew that wasn’t true. She would meet her friends at the flea market, and they would spend the next several hours wandering through the aisles looking for bargains on things Earl was sure they didn’t need. He and Helen had very different ideas about the meaning of “soon.”

He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus (Revelation 22:20).

Some Christians may wonder if Jesus will ever return. What does “soon” mean to a God who is eternal and patient?

But Jesus has promised that He will return. He could come at any moment, and His followers must be ready. His delay isn’t because He is wandering around aimlessly. The Bible teaches that God’s patience is to allow as many to come to know Him as possible. Every moment He delays returning is another moment to share the gospel with a loved one, a neighbor, or a stranger on the street. His delay creates opportunity, but His return will be soon.

Thought for Today: As we end another year, reflect on His faithfulness and look forward to His soon return.