The hymn, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” names several blessings Christians enjoy: Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide; Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside. So much to be thankful for!
Ponder our “bright hope for tomorrow.” In our day of petty political bickering, global tensions, widespread poverty, and human trafficking (there are 40+ million slaves today (IJM)), it’s easy to become gloomy about the future. But I challenge you to make sure the future you’re envisioning is the one that God predicts—and promises!
To be sure, this side of heaven believers do face trials (John 16:33); Jesus told us that following him involves cross-bearing (Luke 9:23). So we don’t expect today’s world to roll out the red carpet for us, nor do we buy into the warped theology that God owes us prosperity.
But we do hold on to hope—bright hope for the future. Christmas season reminds us of the first advent (i.e., appearing) of the Son of God. But always keep the second advent of Christ in view as well.
Jesus’ first appearing was to deal with sin: The Son of man came … to give his life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45); God’s Son was born into human life for redemption as our Saving Substitute (Galatians 4:4-5). But his second coming will be so very different: Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him (Hebrews 9:28).
Yes, this is our “blessed hope”: the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13). So don’t seek security in politicians, government, or economic projections: rest in God’s “strength for today” and bank on his gift of “bright hope for tomorrow”!
So then, between this moment and that Great Day, what are we to do? Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near (Hebrews 10:24-25). Also, reach out beyond our fellowship, loving neighbors and giving an account of the hope that is in you (1 Peter 3:15). Remember, the Newborn King will return in glory & majesty: O come, let us adore him!
