Christmas Returns: an Opportunity to Remember the 2nd Advent

This time of year, long lines leading to customer service stations trail across stores. Are you waiting in one now as you read this? Stop reading and praise the Lord. There’ll be no lines in the rapture. Blast! A trumpet will wake those who sleep in Jesus, calling them up out of their graves. Then the saints still living on earth will be caught up and meet Him in the air.

If you’re standing in a return line, I’m guessing either a gift didn’t fit, or you don’t like it. Praise God! He gives perfect gifts. The Sparkling white robe He’ll wrap around your shoulders when you step into His presence will fit better than any earthly tailor could ever manufacture. It will feel warm, clean, and smell better than any garment softened with Downey. And imagine how comfortable clothing designed in a sin-free environment might be—better than micro-fleece, chenille, or the finest silk in all oriental history!

I trust you worshipped the baby Jesus of the manger, the star of the first Advent. But consider what significant event His birth pointed to–the Day of the Lord. He’s returning! The second Advent ought to strike reverence in the hearts of God’s people and fear in the hearts of the lost. But how will a dying world hear the truth if we don’t proclaim it?

When you’re standing in a return line after Christmas, I suggest saying to your neighbor in line, “He’s coming!” Maybe that person will ask, “Who’s coming?” and you can tell them about our Jesus!