Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning,
like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet…Truly I tell you, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them. Luke 12:35–37
Lord Jesus, I’ve endured some horrible teaching about your second coming. Most of which generated self-centered fear, Gospel-less speculation, and political sensationalism. But this morning, as I meditate on this passage, much of the rubbish and rubble is cleared away.
Jesus, I’ve never been less anxious and more ready for your return, but only because of a growing understanding of the Gospel. I’m already wearing the right clothes—the wedding garment of your perfect righteousness. The oil in my lamp will never run dry, for you’ve sealed us as your own and have sent the Spirit to dwell in our hearts forever.
Because the Gospel is true, I’m ready for service in two ways. The first one is breath-takingly glorious. According to this Scripture, when you return, you will have us, your Bride, “recline at the table,” and you will come and wait on us. Wow! Lord Jesus, this is hard to take in. I believe it, but free me from my unbelief.
What wondrous love is this, indeed… but all you’ve ever done is serve your people—in creation, by your incarnation, through your crucifixion; by your resurrection, ascension, and heavenly intercession. You are our Servant-Lord.
Secondly, as I consider all the ways you serve us, Jesus, I have a renewed passion to serve you, with my Gospel Posse and friends.
Whose feet shall we wash? Who needs to hear the matchless good news of free grace and full salvation through you? Where should we work for justice, extend mercy, and walk humbly and joyfully with you, Lord Jesus? So very Amen we pray, in your peerless and powerful name.