Living with expectation is a central theme in the Christian life, characterized by a hopeful anticipation of God's promises and the fulfillment of His divine plan. This concept is deeply rooted in Scripture and is reflected in the lives of biblical figures who exemplified faith and trust in God's timing and purposes.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible encourages believers to live with a sense of expectation, looking forward to the fulfillment of God's promises. In the Old Testament, the prophets often spoke of a future hope, pointing to the coming of the Messiah. Isaiah 40:31 states, "But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint." This verse highlights the strength and perseverance that come from living with expectation.

In the New Testament, the theme of expectation is closely tied to the return of Jesus Christ. Believers are called to live in anticipation of His second coming. In Titus 2:13 , Paul writes, "as we await the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ." This expectation shapes the Christian life, motivating believers to live in holiness and readiness.

Examples from Scripture

1. Abraham: Known as the father of faith, Abraham lived with expectation as he awaited the fulfillment of God's promise to make him a great nation. Hebrews 11:10 notes, "For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God." Abraham's life exemplifies trust in God's promises despite not seeing their immediate fulfillment.

2. Simeon and Anna: In Luke 2, Simeon and Anna are portrayed as devout individuals who lived with expectation for the consolation of Israel. Simeon, guided by the Holy Spirit, awaited the Messiah and was blessed to see Jesus before his death. Anna, a prophetess, spoke of Jesus to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

3. The Early Church: The early Christians lived with a vibrant expectation of Christ's return. This anticipation influenced their daily lives, as seen in Acts 1:11 , where the angels tell the disciples, "This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven." This promise fueled their mission and perseverance.

Practical Implications

Living with expectation involves a dynamic faith that impacts every aspect of a believer's life. It calls for:

· Hope and Patience: Expectation fosters hope, encouraging believers to remain patient and steadfast in trials. Romans 8:25 states, "But if we hope for what we do not yet see, we wait for it patiently."

· Holiness and Readiness: The anticipation of Christ's return motivates believers to pursue holiness. 1 John 3:3 declares, "And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure."

· Active Service: Expectation leads to active service and engagement in God's work. Believers are called to be faithful stewards, as seen in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), where readiness and diligence are rewarded.

Challenges and Encouragement

While living with expectation can be challenging due to the uncertainties of life, Scripture provides encouragement. James 5:7-8 urges, "Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the soil, being patient until it receives the early and late rains. You too, be patient and strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near."

In summary, living with expectation is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, rooted in the promises of God and the hope of Christ's return. It calls believers to a life of hope, holiness, and active service, sustained by the assurance of God's faithfulness.