Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is. And all who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as he is pure. 1 John 3:2–3 (NLT)
One thing we know, we’re closer to Jesus’ return than ever before. But as we look at the world around us, as we see so many biblical prophesies fulfilled and when we realise that there are so few prophesies left to be fulfilled, it’s not difficult to see the possibility that Jesus is preparing to return very soon!
But what will that moment be like? We know we’ll be with Him in the twinkling of an eye but what will He be like? What will we be like? We know so much about Jesus’ life and so much is revealed in the Book of Revelation about the Lord now, enthroned in majesty, power and glory! But in that moment, we’ll be totally overwhelmed because we’ll see Him as He really is… and if that wasn’t breath-taking enough, John tells us that we, in our new resurrection bodies, will be like him!
The wonder and the mystery of this scene is enough ignite a tremendous level of passion and commitment to Jesus and His ways in every believer. The finished work of the cross displayed in the heavenlies, the sacrificial offering of Jesus’ body and blood fully reimbursed, and the sanctifying work of Holy Spirit now completed! Everything is now brought to climax as the Bridegroom consummates his Bride for eternity!
WOW! What a day that will be! It’s a profound and beautiful scene for reflection, contemplation and meditation, but it must be much more. This should stir us to action! It must motivate us to partner with the Holy Spirit who transforms us into Christlikeness now.
In 2 Corinthians 3:18, Paul wrote: “…And the Lord – who is the Spirit – makes us more and more like him [Jesus] as we are changed into his glorious image.”
So, our deepest desire must be like Daniel when he determined in his heart not to defile himself (Daniel 1:8). Our primary goal should be to consistently become more like Jesus in all of life in preparation for that moment when we meet Him and will be like Him.
All who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as He is pure (1 John 3:3).
Lord, thank You for the sure and steadfast hope we have in Your return. As I prepare for that day, empower me to pursue purity and holiness in every aspect of my life. As I live very much in this world, carrying Your presence to those who need You, help me never to be stained or seduced by the sinful culture around me. May I keep myself pure, even as You are pure! Amen