Living ready for the return of Jesus: Finding hope while we wait If you knew someone really important was coming to visit your home, you'd probably prepare. You'd tidy up, make sure everything was ready, and keep an eye on the time. There would be a sense of excitement because you know they're worth waiting …
Living ready for the return of Jesus: Finding hope while we wait
If you knew someone really important was coming to visit your home, you’d probably prepare. You’d tidy up, make sure everything was ready, and keep an eye on the time. There would be a sense of excitement because you know they’re worth waiting for.
The books of 1 & 2 Thessalonians remind us that followers of Jesus are living with that same kind of anticipation. Jesus promised He would return. His promise isn’t meant to make us fearful; it should fill us with hope, purpose and expectation.
For the Christians in Thessalonica, life wasn’t easy. They faced opposition because of their faith and had lots of questions about what would happen when Jesus returned. The Apostle Paul wrote to encourage them, reminding them that God’s promises are certain and that waiting on Jesus isn’t passive… it’s active.
Hope changes how we live
One of the most comforting passages in 1 Thessalonians reminds us that Jesus will return for His people.
“For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven… and so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words.”
1 Thessalonians 4:16–18 (NIV)
Paul wasn’t trying to satisfy people’s curiosity about the future; he wanted them to have hope. Knowing that Jesus is coming again gives us confidence that this world isn’t the end of the story. Pain won’t last forever. Death doesn’t have the final word. God is still working His perfect plan.
That’s good news for all of us, especially those carrying disappointment, grief or uncertainty today.
Don’t just wait – live well
Living in anticipation of Jesus means:
- prioritising our relationship with Jesus
- living intentionally today
- obeying what God has told us to do in the Bible
- loving people well, serving faithfully and sharing the hope we’ve found in Christ.
Each ordinary day becomes an opportunity to reflect Jesus.
Keep growing
The Thessalonian church was already known for their faith and love, but Paul encouraged them not to stop there.
“Now about your love for one another… we urge you, brothers and sisters, to do so more and more.”
1 Thessalonians 4:9–10 (NIV)
Following Jesus isn’t about reaching a finish line where we’ve “arrived.” It’s about becoming more like Him every day as we wait with anticipation for His return.
“So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you.”
2 Thessalonians 2:15 (NIV)
Whether you’ve followed Jesus for thirty years or you’re just beginning your journey of faith, there’s always another step to take.
Summary
The books of 1 and 2 Thessalonians remind us that Jesus will one day return, and that truth should fill us with hope rather than fear. While we wait, we’re called to live faithfully; loving others, growing spiritually, standing firm in God’s truth, and sharing the good news of Jesus. Our future is secure in Him, so we can live each day with confidence, purpose and joyful expectation.
Prayer
Father, thank You for the hope we have because of Jesus. Thank You that no matter what we face today, our future is secure in You. Help us to live with joyful expectation, not fear. Teach us to love people well, remain faithful each day, and boldly share the hope of the Gospel with those around us. Keep our hearts focused on You as we wait for the day we will see Jesus face to face. May our lives reflect Your love until He comes again. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
An invitation
We warmly invite you to our Sunday Services at 9am and 12:30pm. Come and experience the presence of God, and be part of a loving community who will support you on your Christian journey.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
God bless you
