Joyful reunion

He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming quickly.” Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus! — Revelation 22:20

Some years ago when our children were still small, I flew home after a 10-day ministry trip. In those days people were allowed to visit the airport boarding area to greet incoming passengers. When my flight landed, I came out of the jet-bridge and was greeted by our little ones — so happy to see me that they were screaming and crying. I looked at my wife, whose eyes were teary. I couldn’t speak. Strangers in the gate area also teared up as our children hugged my legs and cried their greetings. It was a wonderful moment.

The memory of the intensity of that greeting serves as a gentle rebuke to the priorities of my own heart. The apostle John, eagerly desiring Jesus’ return, wrote, “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming quickly.’ Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!” (Rev. 22:20). In another passage, Paul even spoke of a crown awaiting those who have “loved His appearing” (2 Tim. 4:8). Yet sometimes I don’t feel as eager for Christ’s return as my children were for mine.

Jesus is worthy of the very best of our love and devotion — and nothing on earth should compare to the thought of seeing Him face-to-face. May our love for our Savior deepen as we anticipate our joyful reunion with Him.

— Bill Crowder

And for the hope of His return,

Dear Lord, Your name we praise;

With longing hearts we watch and wait

For that great day of days!

— Sherwood

Read: 2 Timothy 4:1-8

Those who belong to Christ should be longing to see Him.

The Bible in one year:

• Psalms 113-115;

• 1 Corinthians 6