Preparing for Jesus’ Coming

Written by Lydia E. Harris

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And this was his message: “After me will come one more powerful than I…” (Mark 1:7).

We spent months preparing for our daughter’s wedding. We had so much to do: mail invitations, order flowers, bake cookies, choose dresses, diet to squeeze into dresses, and the list continued. Finally everything was ready and the big day arrived. Musicians played, candles glowed, and lovely bridesmaids strolled down the aisle–all in anticipation of the bride’s entrance. When our radiant daughter appeared, the music swelled and the audience rose, all eyes upon her. It was time to celebrate and “unveil” the bride. As the marriage ceremony concluded, her father prayed a blessing over the wedded couple, and she marched out with her husband, eager to begin her new role as wife. What a memorable day!

In the Gospel of Mark, we read about another anticipated day of even greater significance. Much preparation took place for this event too–the unveiling of Jesus’ new public ministry. John the Baptist prepared the way by preaching “repentance for the forgiveness of sins” (v. 4). Many confessed their sins and were baptized (v.5). When all was ready, Jesus came from Nazareth’s carpenter shop and was publicly “baptized by John in the Jordan” (v. 9). As Jesus rose from the water, the Spirit descended on Him and God blessed Him saying, “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased” (v. 11).

Now we anticipate another great day–Jesus’ second coming, when we’ll be the bride of Christ. This requires spiritual preparation. When He returns, I want to be ready so He will be pleased with me, as the father was with Him.

Lord God, help me live each day anticipating Jesus’ return. Cleanse my heart so I’ll be ready. Today, may I live to please You. Amen.

Questions: How are you preparing yourself for the second coming of Jesus? Are you anticipating with joy Christ coming? Why or why not? What do you need to change in your life before you would be ready to meet Christ?

About the Author Lydia Harris

Daily audio podcast: A second daily devotional, Practicing Patience, today on the Men’s Devotional Blog

Tags: bake cookies, bride, bride of Christ, bridesmaids, diet, forgiveness, invitations, John the Baptist, Repentance, spiritual, wedding

2 Responses to “Preparing for Jesus’ Coming”

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kanj says:

June 9, 2009 at 7:15 pm

Lydia, thank you for the devotional.
sharonb says:

June 5, 2009 at 8:33 am

i am waiting for the day He returns happly i know where i will be