“Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.” – Revelation 1:7 

Scripture reading: Revelation 1:9-18; 19:11-21

On Christmas Day we looked back in time to remember Jesus’ first Advent, but we look forward to His second Advent. And it will be very different in character.

Jesus’ first Advent was not noticed by many people. Only a few shepherds, and later, some wise men from the east, came to see the newborn King. Interestingly, Jesus’ enemies looked for Him, but could not find Him. What a contrast to His second coming where Jesus will be noticed by everyone and His enemies will not be able to flee from Him.

Jesus came to earth the first time as a humble, helpless babe wearing not a prince’s garb, but swaddling cloths. He lay not in a cradle, but an animal’s feeding trough. His birthplace was not a palace, but a barn. However, when Jesus returns, He will come as a mighty, majestic King wrapped in flowing, royal robe, riding a royal steed, and wielding a double-edged sword.

Jesus’ first coming focused on bringing salvation to His people through His atoning death. His second coming focuses on bringing judgment upon His enemies through their eternal death. When Jesus returns, the dead will be raised, the earth will quake and a final fault-line will be formed as the final separation takes place. All those standing on Satan’s side will be swallowed up by eternal death in hell. But those on Jesus’ side will live on the green grass of God’s new creation from that day forward and forevermore.

Whose side do you stand on? Where does your loyalty lie?

Suggestions for prayer

Thank Jesus that if you trust in Him, you can confidently await His return as Judge, for on the cross He already stood trial in your place and removed God’s wrath when He bore the curse for you.

This daily devotional is available in a print edition you can buy at Nearer to God Devotional. Rev. Brian Zegers has been serving the Lord by working with Word of Life Ministry as home missionary to the Muslim community in Toronto, Ontario since 2015.