Reading
Read Luke 21:27–28
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And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.
Read 2 Peter 3:8–14
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But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and the very elements themselves will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment.
Since everything around us is going to be destroyed like this, what holy and godly lives you should live, looking forward to the day of God and hurrying it along. On that day, he will set the heavens on fire, and the elements will melt away in the flames. But we are looking forward to the new heavens and new earth he has promised, a world filled with God’s righteousness.
And so, dear friends, while you are waiting for these things to happen, make every effort to be found living peaceful lives that are pure and blameless in his sight.
Reflection Questions
- Think of a time where you’ve waited expectantly for something to come or something to happen. What did you feel during the time you were waiting? What did it feel like when that thing or event finally arrived?
- Re-read 2 Peter 3:8–14. What stands out to you in this passage and why? What questions does it leave you with?
- How does your life reflect your belief that Jesus will return? Is it something you think about and long for? If not, why do you think that is?
- What do you think of when you hear the words "be diligent"? What does it look like for you to be diligent in pursuing holiness and godliness? In what areas do you need to fight and flee from sin? In what areas do you need to cultivate love for God and love for others?