Christ’s return is one of the central teachings of the Christian faith. All throughout the New Testament, we find references to Christ’s second coming and are exhorted to be ready for that glorious day. As believers, we are to live our lives in light of the reality that Jesus is returning and will one day establish His eternal kingdom. But what exactly does that mean? How should we live day-to-day in light of Christ’s return?
Fundamentally, living in light of Christ’s return means living with eternity in view. It means recognizing that this world is not our ultimate home, but rather we are strangers and pilgrims on this earth, awaiting our eternal home in heaven (Hebrews 11:13-16). When Christ returns, He will renew and restore all of creation, and those who have put their faith in Him will experience the fullness of salvation–resurrection bodies, no more sin or suffering, and the ability to worship God perfectly for all eternity. Keeping our focus on eternity changes our perspective and priorities in this present life.
Living in light of eternity means pursuing holiness rather than worldly pleasures. Scripture tells us that when Christ returns, “we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure” (1 John 3:2-3). Knowing that we will one day be made perfect in righteousness motivates us to strive for purity and avoid sinful indulgences while we await Christ’s return (Titus 2:11-14).
Living in light of Christ’s return also means being ready at any moment–keeping our spiritual eyes open and being prepared for our Lord’s return. Jesus exhorted His disciples to “stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming” (Matthew 24:42) and to “be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Matthew 24:44). We demonstrate our readiness by walking closely with Christ daily, pursuing obedience to His Word, living on mission for Him, and anticipating His return with joy.
Furthermore, living in light of eternity means clinging loosely to the things of this world. As followers of Jesus, we are to “set our minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2). Earthly achievements, possessions, and comforts are temporary. Jesus tells us to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth (Matthew 6:19-21). Knowing Christ could return at any moment keeps us from holding on too tightly to earthly things or overvaluing fleeting pleasures and pursuits.
Living in light of Christ’s return also involves living on mission–being faithful witnesses for Christ and making disciples until He comes. We are to be “steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). The time is short, so we must maximize opportunities to advance God’s kingdom before Christ returns and eternity begins. We do not have time for idle self-indulgence.
Additionally, living in light of Christ’s return means looking forward to His coming with hope and joyful expectation. Christ’s return is our “blessed hope” (Titus 2:13), the event we eagerly anticipate. We are to encourage one another with the truth that “the Lord is at hand” (Philippians 4:5) and “the coming of the Lord is at hand” (James 5:8). Living in joyful anticipation of seeing Jesus face to face provides enduring motivation and hope amidst life’s trials.
Living in light of Christ’s return also involves patience and perseverance. His timing is perfect, and He will return at just the right moment, though we do not know exactly when that will be. We are called to “be patient” until the Lord’s coming (James 5:7-8). Waiting expectantly for Christ requires Spirit-empowered perseverance. But the hope of eternity with Jesus motivates us to endure hardship and remain faithful through suffering (Romans 8:18; 2 Timothy 2:8-13).
Furthermore, living in light of eternity impacts how we view and treat others. Knowing we will give account for our lives at Christ’s return motivates us to live righteously, love others generously, serve humbly, and use our gifts to build up others–especially fellow believers (Romans 14:10-12; 1 Peter 4:7-11). Loving others well and contributing to the needs of God’s people should be key priorities of kingdom living.
Living in light of Christ’s return also means having an urgency to share the gospel while we await our Lord’s return. We have been given the ministry of reconciliation and should therefore be Christ’s ambassadors, imploring people to be reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:18-21). While busy with His work, Jesus said, “We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work” (John 9:4). We must proactively share the good news for the eternal benefit of others.
Finally, living in light of Christ’s return means having full assurance in His promises. Jesus pledged to return to take believers to be with Him in glory forever (John 14:3). He will make all things new for those whose hope is in Him (Revelation 21:5). As we eagerly await the return of our Lord, we can stand on the unshakable hope of His promises, knowing He is faithful and will do what He said.
Christ’s return is the ultimate hope every Christian embraces and anchors our lives. This eager expectation impacts how we view each day and makes our brief lives on earth purposeful when lived for God’s kingdom. By God’s grace, may we all walk in holiness, godliness and faithful service as we live in light of our glorious eternal home yet to come at Christ’s return.
