We tend to prepare a lot when expecting a baby. We will do things like meal prepping, cleaning, preparing a room, the carseat, and buying clothes and other things that the baby will need. But do we have the same expectation when it comes to the return of Jesus Christ?
Anticipating the Return of Jesus
The word “expecting” may not be the best term to use. Instead, “anticipating” may be more fitting. Anticipation carries with it the eager awaiting of something, and in the case of a new child, certainly as parents we are eager for them to arrive. We desire earnestly to meet our children, to love them and care for them.
Similarly, our eagerness for the return of Jesus should drive our daily lives and actions. Because we desire for that day, we prepare ourselves, our lives, and our loved ones both mentally and physically.
Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace.
2 Peter 3:14
The entire context of 2 Peter 3, which you should read, deals with the end of time and the return of Jesus. Verse 14 reinforces the idea that our behavior matters when considering his return. It says that we should be “diligent” to be found without spot or blemish. This would seem to indicate that our preparedness for His return matters greatly.
How Can I Prepare for Jesus’ Return?
Realizing that one day we will be held responsible for our preparedness regarding the return of Jesus, the next question one might ask is “How can I prepare for His return?” Staying within the context of 2 Peter 3, we learn in verse 9 that the Lord desires at least one specific action to be taken by man.
The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.
2 Peter 3:9
What God desires is for all men to reach repentance. (For more information on repentance and its connection to baptism, see 7 types of Baptism.) Repentance is a term with a very deep meaning. It’s generally referred to as the act of turning away from from something, but the Biblical meaning is more associated with the idea of changing who you are. It’s a fundamental switch of your character so that you no longer even desire to do the evil things of your old life.
Repentance is what God is waiting and delay for. Have you repented and been baptized? Acts 2:38 explains that this is the way to gain salvation, and one way in which we can prepare ourselves, and anticipate the coming of Jesus.
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7 Types of Baptism in the Bible
