Everybody loves to commemorate that sweet baby Jesus in the manger. Most of the world tolerates and even embraces the non-threatening notion of that nativity scene. But it is a whole different story when it comes to the notion of Christ coming in the clouds with great glory to execute judgment upon the nations. In truth it is irrational to separate Christ’s first coming from His second coming. The Bible teaches us that God became a man and dwelt among us. Jesus came humbly as a baby. God not only lowered Himself to become a man but stooped even lower by going to the cross to redeem us from our sins. This same Godman promised us that He would return some day to judge the nations and set up His eternal kingdom. While we wait for Him we are to live in such a way that we would not be caught off guard when He comes. Consider the following verses.

… He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.” (2 Corinthians 5:15, NKJV) 

The return of our Lord is the believer’s “Blessed Hope”

looking for THE BLESSED HOPE and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works. Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you.” (Titus 2:13–15)

Concerning living for Christ and looking forward to His promise  

The Apostle Paul wrote:

So, we are always confident, knowing that while we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. Therefore, we make it our aim, whether present or absent, to be well pleasing to Him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences.” (2 Corinthians 5:6–11, NKJV)

 
We prepare for Christmas and celebrate the birth of Christ once a year, but we should celebrate and prepare for His return all year round.

                                                                            Pastor Mike