Advent: Anticipating Christ’s Return

A part of celebrating Advent is not only celebrating Jesus’ first coming through the Incarnation, but looking forward to Christ’s return—His Second Coming.

Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me,and I will give to each person according to what they have done.

Revelation 22:12 NIV

We live in a world marked by violent global conflicts, massive environmental challenges, marked societal unrest, and unprecedented opportunities for evangelism created through the increased proliferation of technology.

Signs of the Times

In Matthew 24, Jesus speaks of events that would precede His return, often referred to as “birth pains.” These signs include:

• Wars and rumors of wars
• Natural disasters like earthquakes and famines
• Widespread deception by false prophets
• Increased lawlessness and the cooling of love among many
• The preaching of the gospel to all nations

These warnings resonate with many believers throughout the world today. It’s quite natural to see parallels and wonder: Is Jesus coming back soon?

Yet, history reminds us that similar “signs” have appeared in every generation. From the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70 to world wars, pandemics, and societal shifts, believers in every age have wrestled with the question: Is this the generation that shall not pass?

Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place.

Matthew 24:34 ESV

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Living in the Tension

For us, interpreting these signs means balancing anticipation with grounded living:

1. Anticipation
   Jesus’ return is a promise, and He encourages us to live as though it could happen at any moment. Therefore we must be spiritual prepared —living our lives with purpose, integrity, and faith.
2. Grounded Living
   At the same time, Jesus reminds us that even He doesn’t know the exact time of His return. He said, “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Matthew 24:36).

While the signs are definitely meaningful, it’s also important to remember that they don’t serve as a countdown clock. Since the First Advent and Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, every generation has faced some form of these signs.

Faithful living means navigating this tension: staying hopeful for Christ’s return while engaging meaningfully in the present.

Only God the Father knows when. Our job is to anticipate and participate.

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Meditation for Today

Let’s reflect on how these signs shape the way we live. They can propel you forward or mire you in fear. One response honors God; the other does not.

Does anticipating the advent of Jesus’ return inspire you to:

• Deepen your faith by drawing closer to God through prayer and reflection?
• Serve others with compassion and love, reflecting Christ’s mission on earth?
• Trust the Divine plan, finding peace amid uncertainty and chaos?

Whether or not “this is the generation,” our responses are timeless throughout the generations.

The signs of the times are not merely warnings; they’re an invitation to live intentionally, love extravagantly, and remain steadfast in hope.

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A Call to Action

The heralding of Christ’s impending return is nothing new. The fact is, Jesus could come back at any moment. As we reflect on the world around us, the “signs” we see either lead us to greater faithfulness and readiness or cause us to lose sight of the truth and God’s promises.

How can the “signs”‘ we see challenge us to live with both urgency and peace?

Please share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear how this resonates with you.

Go in peace,
Rainer Bantau—The Devotional Guy™