"he is near" (mk 13:29)
"Then men will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. He will dispatch His angels and assemble His chosen." —Mark 13:26-27
In these last two weeks of the Church year, the Church pays special attention to the Second Coming of Christ. Focusing on Jesus' return in power is critical for our life in Christ and our spiritual well-being.
Some readers of One Bread, One Body live in foreign countries and are actively persecuted for their faith in Jesus. Some of our foreign printers and distributors risk their lives regularly to spread God's word. If you "face death every day" (1 Cor 15:31) for your life of courageous faith, be encouraged. The Lord Jesus will always have the final word. Your Redeemer lives, and your eyes will see Him (Jb 19:25, 27). "He is near, even at the door" (Mk 13:29), and you will see Him coming with great power and glory to vindicate you (Mk 13:26-27). "Stand erect and hold your heads high, for your deliverance is near at hand" (Lk 21:28).
For those who don't live for the Lord, Jesus' Second Coming will not be humble and meek as was His first coming. There will be no meek Infant lying in an obscure manger this time. This time, His coming will shake the cosmos in "great power and glory" (Mk 13:26). Few noticed Him in Bethlehem; this time "every eye shall see Him, even of those who" reject Him (Rv 1:7). He will come as Judge (Jas 5:9), and the season of mercy will be over. Therefore, repent now before it's too late! Reconcile with Jesus now, for you know not the day or the hour of His return (Mk 13:32).
Prayer: Lord Jesus, may I know You as Savior as well as Judge.
Promise: "Those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever." —Dn 12:3
Praise: Praise the risen Jesus, Emmanuel, God-with-us (Mt 1:23), always with us to the end of time (Mt 28:20).
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
Rescript: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 6, 2006
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