And just as it is appointed for mortals to die once, and after that the judgment, so 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 9:27-28
Jesus came to teach us love, and how we could be saved, then went back to the Father until the time appointed for His return. He also gave us a decision to make – are we eagerly waiting for His return having accepted Him as Lord and Savior, or are we still walking in darkness? He came with open arms, inviting us to accept the free offer of grace, but the choice is ours.
We have been allowed to choose for ourselves since the very beginning, able to think things through before deciding. Unfortunately we often don’t think, acting out of emotion and earthly desires. God calls us to follow His will, but we are not forced to do so, we must consciously respond to His guidance.
Will we be among those who have chosen to follow Christ, waiting in anticipation for His coming? We must decide that for ourselves, no one else can affirm or deny us. Our gift of free will allows us and only us to make the decision. Choose Christ and eternal life with Him!
Loving Lord, we are made in Your image, gifted to chart our own course. May we be faithful to Your call on our lives, willing to choose Your way for us and joyfully return to You when Christ comes for us. Amen.