“Surely I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:20).

Advent is the four-week period leading up to Christmas. It is from a Latin word meaning “coming.” At this time of year, we think about the first coming of Christ at Christmas. Makes sense. Historically, however, it is also a time to think about the “second coming” when Jesus returns.

Jonathan lived in southern Manitoba. He was in his early 60’s when his doctor said that he had an incurable condition. He had about two years to live. After the initial shock had worn off, he did three things.

First, he called his brother. They had a falling out 7 or 8 years earlier over a family property dispute. Things were said. But now, Jonthan apologized.

Second, he took out his Bible. He had always planned to read it “cover to cover” before he died. Since his life now had an end-date, he started reading. He was fascinated with prayer, so he got in touch with a local Anglican priest to learn more. He even started attending services.

Third, he wrote a will. He knew there would be some money after selling his house. He didn’t have any kids so wanted to leave some money to a good cause. He designated some funds for a local after-school program for youth which provided games, snacks and workshops based on the skill-set of the volunteers (knitting, handyman skills, etc.)

Two weeks after his will was finished, he got a call from the doctor. “Jonathan, you’re not going to believe this, and I am so sorry, but it’s good news. I re-ran the tests and consulted with a colleague. There was a mistake. You’re not dying.” 

Jonanthan was so happy. But he wasn’t happy just because he wasn’t dying. Preparing to meet his Maker made him truly live. He had a peace he had never experienced before.

Jonathan now knew that he had a second chance. He took the next step to meet up with his brother. His faith came alive and he took some real, tangible steps to follow Jesus. And he became one of the volunteers at that after-school program. One Tuesday a month he helps kids with simple wood-working projects.

Hmm, makes you think. Preparing to meet his Maker prepared Jonathan to truly live.

I hope you have a long, joyful life. But what if your own death, or the return of Jesus, came sooner than you expected?

Brothers and sisters, live today like you want to be living on the last day.

When you do, you will find greater peace, no matter what.

---

Notes:

-“Being Ready for Jesus’ Return: The Parable of the 10 Virgins.” Click here. Sermon.

–Replay: “A Serious Historical Deep Dive into the Nativity.” Click here, or find it on ‘The Pulse Podcast with Matthew Ruttan’ (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, etc.)

-Bible quotes are from the ESV.