What practical steps can we take to live with hope in Jesus' return? The Ascension: Our Anchor of Hope “While He was blessing them, He left them and was carried up into heaven.” (Luke 24:51) • Jesus’ bodily departure guarantees His bodily return (Acts 1:9-11). • Because the first part of the promise literally happened, we can live certain the second part will, too (John 14:2-3). Keep the Promise in View • Read or recite one return-focused passage each morning—1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; Titus 2:13. • Place a small reminder (sticky note, phone lock-screen) that says, “He is coming soon” (Revelation 22:20). • When anxiety rises, verbally affirm: “The Lord is coming back for me.” Set Your Mind on Things Above • “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2) • Limit media that clouds eternity; increase time in Scripture, hymns, and sermons that lift your gaze. • In conversations, steer topics toward God’s kingdom and what lasts forever. Pursue Practical Holiness • “What kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives.” (2 Peter 3:11) • Make a simple holiness plan: – Identify one sin to repent of this week. – Replace it with a Christlike habit (Ephesians 4:22-24). • Keep short accounts with God—confess quickly, obey immediately. Stay in Community • “Let us hold resolutely…not neglecting to meet together…but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:23-25) • Prioritize Sunday worship; schedule it first, not last. • Join a small group where members remind each other that the King is on His way. Witness Boldly • Jesus ascended after commissioning us (Luke 24:47-49). • Carry a simple gospel outline; look for one person each week to share it with. • Your testimony of hope in His return can open doors no argument can. Serve Faithfully Until He Comes • Like the servants in Luke 19:13, “Engage in business until I return.” • Use your gifts consistently—whether teaching, helping, giving, or showing mercy (Romans 12:6-8). • View every task, from diaper changes to board meetings, as stewardship He will one day reward (2 Corinthians 5:10). Maintain Joyful Worship • The disciples “returned to Jerusalem with great joy” after the ascension (Luke 24:52). • Sing songs that celebrate the coming King (“Crown Him,” “Even So Come”). • Keep a gratitude journal focused on evidences of His reign now and future victory. Pray with Expectation • Let “Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20) season personal and corporate prayer. • When suffering surfaces, immediately link requests to the hope of His appearing (Romans 8:18-25). • Ask the Spirit to keep your heart longing, not drifting. Watch and Work Hand in Hand • Hope in His return is not passive waiting; it fuels active obedience. • By keeping the promise before our eyes, setting our minds on heaven, cultivating holiness, staying connected, witnessing, serving, worshiping, and praying expectantly, we live every day ready for the moment “the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a loud command” (1 Thessalonians 4:16). |
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