Maranatha

 While we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.” – Titus 2:13

One of my earlies Christmas memories is when my grandmother put me into my bed on Christmas Eve. I was so filled with excitement and expectation. I loved everything about Christmas, especially Santa Claus. My mother always said that when it came to Christmas, I was a "true believer." That night, as my grandmother pulled the covers over me, she told me to listen for his sleigh bells on the roof. The roof was right over my bed, so I figured I had a great chance to hear them. I was determined that I would. I listened and "watched" for them as intently as I could....until I fell asleep.

That contrasts with the Scripture from Titus. The early church was gripped with a longing for the return of Jesus Christ. They constantly prayed for and lived in expectation of His return. Their prayers almost always included the word "Maranatha," which means "Lord, come!" or "The Lord is coming!" They were fervent in their desire and they lived with the eyes and ears of their heart tuned to His return. They were always seeking it, looking for it, fully expecting that it would be. Then....over time.....the church fell asleep. I don't believe that we have as yet fully awakened...but there are signs that we're beginning to.

We look for so many things in this life, but sadly most of them have to do with our own selfish desires. We want that which will add on to and improve our life. Our eyes are upon what is near in the physical and material realm. We have drifted far from the place of intently scanning the spiritual horizon for the return of the King. Talk may be increasing about His return, but I believe it has more to do with His return changing the conditions of a world situation we don't like. It's about His making things better for us. It's not about simply longing for and wanting Him.

I think most of us can remember our longings concerning Christmas, birthdays, or other special times in our lives, especially as children. What are our memories concerning our longings for Him? Not just for His physical coming in His return, but for His spiritual appearing that is available to us every moment of our lives? Is Maranatha the cry of our hearts? Lord, come! Every day, in every way, come! Has that fervent desire gone to sleep in you, in me? May He awaken in us once more that deep longing that can only be satisfied by His fullness. May our prayer be, Lord Jesus, come! Come now! And may we eagerly look for Him to appear to us in every and any way He desires each day. Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus!

Blessings,
Pastor O