All these things that should be done while waiting can also be applied to a much larger picture. Just as generation upon generation of Israelites waited for the coming of the Messiah, so the modern Christian must diligently wait for the coming Christ. As watchmen wait eagerly for the morning, today's Christians should wait with great hope and much expectation for the fulfilment of all they believe in. However, a watchman's sole job is not to simply wait for morning. He must be ready every moment to sound the alarm and defend his city against an enemy. Likewise, Christians must diligently study the Word to know truth and be ready any hour to stand against falsehood and be ready to die for their faith. Just as in every other situation, promises are given to those who are willing to stand for the truth until Christ's return. While describing the abominations that should be expected during the end, Jesus promised in Matthew 24:13 "But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved."
Just like every other form of waiting on the Lord, this waiting should not be idle. Jesus Himself gave instructions as to what should be done until He returns. In Acts 1:8 He says, "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." That commission is easy to understand. While filled with hope and waiting for the Lord to return, Christians ought to share this great love that they now know, to everyone they meet.
The last words of Jesus in the book of Matthew tie up the concept of waiting perfectly, in which He declares His supreme authority, thus giving a reason to trust Him, He commissions a work to be done, thus making the waiting a task that is not idle, and He once again gives a promise, which provides a very good reason to keep waiting and working. Matthew 28:18-20 says:
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
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Wait on the Lord
No FicciónThroughout their life and service, many followers of Christ encounter the command to wait on the Lord, to be still, and to rest content in the faithfulness of God. But what does waiting on the Lord even mean?
