The return of Jesus is not a myth, metaphor, or distant dream. It is a divine promise one that will be fulfilled. Scripture tells us clearly and repeatedly that Christ will come again, not as a suffering servant, but as King of kings and Lord of lords. The question is not *if* He will return, but *are we ready when He does?

Jesus warned His followers to be watchful. He compared His return to a thief coming in the night  unexpected and sudden. The world may continue on in busyness, sin, and distraction, but those who belong to Him are called to live alert and prepared.

**“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.”**

*Matthew 24:42 (NIV)*

Being ready doesn’t mean living in fear or guessing the date of His return. It means walking in **obedience**, living in **faith**, and staying **spiritually awake**. It's a daily decision to put Christ first, to live holy lives, and to fulfill the purpose He’s given us.

The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25 reminds us that not everyone will be prepared. Five were wise, with their lamps full of oil, and five were foolish, caught unready when the bridegroom came. The door was shut, and the opportunity was missed.

**“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.”**

— *Matthew 25:13 (NIV)*

The oil in that story represents a life filled with the Holy Spirit  a life that remains lit, fueled, and faithful. Are our hearts full of Him, or have we allowed compromise, apathy, or distraction to drain us?

Jesus' return should stir urgency, but also great hope. For the believer, it is the day of reunion, reward, and eternal joy. No more pain, no more tears, no more evil. We will see Him face to face, and everything broken will be made whole.

 

**“Look, he is coming with the clouds,” and “every eye will see him...”**

— *Revelation 1:7 (NIV)*