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A Prayer of Intensified Longings for Jesus’ Return

     Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him. It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. Luke 12:35-37

King Jesus, through the years I’ve suffered through some horrible teaching about your second coming, most of which generated self-centered fear, gospel-less speculation, and political sensationalism. That’s hardly what you had in mind when you charged us to watch and wait for your return. But this morning, as I meditate on this passage, much of that theological rubbish and rubble is cleared away.

Jesus, I’ve never been less anxious and more ready for your return; but only because of a growing understanding of the gospel. I’m already wearing the right clothes—the wedding garment of your perfect righteousness. Indeed, I’m no longer afraid of your return; I very much want you to come back—Oh, loving bridegroom. The oil in my lamp will never run dry, for you’ve sealed me as your own and have sent the Spirit to dwell in my heart forever.

Because the gospel is true, I’m ready for service in two ways. First of all, I’m ready for you to serve me. According to the Scriptures, when you return, you will have us, your bride, “recline at the table,” and you will come and wait on us. Jesus, this is fries the circuit-board of my faith; it’s simply too much goodness to take in. I believe, Lord, but help me believe it more.

What wondrous love is this, indeed! All you’ve ever done is serve your people, Jesus—in creation and by your incarnation; through your life of perfect obedience and death of perfect sin-bearing; by your resurrection from the dead and ascension into heaven; through your heavenly intercession and sovereign rule over ALL things.

Secondly, as I consider all the ways you serve us, Jesus, your grace gives me passion and delight to serve you. Whose feet do I wash today? Whose burdens do I bear? Where and how might you use me to be a means by which your love becomes tangible and irresistible? So very Amen I pray, in your great and grace-full name.

 

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