Pondering The Parousia

In scripture, the word parousia refers to the second arrival or second coming of Jesus Christ. Overall, its a  majestic event, heralding the arrival of the ‘king of all kings,’ and ‘lord of all lords.’   That’s why as Jesus 'comes again,' Jesus descends from heaven with a loud command, with a “…trumpet call…”  (1 Thessalonians 4:16).   

It’s interesting in ancient times the arrival of an emperor or King was often referred to as the parousia of the King, marked by much pomp and preparation.  Why cities were cleaned and roads were repaired, in anticipation of the King’s arrival, the King’s parousia.   Frankly, that’s our calling as we anticipate the arrival of our King, King Jesus.  Why we should ‘clean up’ our lives, living more fully for King Jesus -- now!   For anticipating the second coming is not waiting for the second coming – but emulating the One who comes – now -- becoming even more committed to His Lordship -- His Lifestyle -- and His Light -- now!

On May 19, 1780 an incredible thing happened in Hartford, CT – referred to now as ‘The Dark Day.’  Why a thick blackness came across the horizon at mid-day, darker than anything ever seen, totally blotting out the sun.  Instinctively, members of the Connecticut House of Representatives assumed it was judgment day, and demanded the assembly be adjourned.  But Abraham Davenport, the speaker of the Connecticut house, had another idea. "The Day of Judgment is either approaching or it’s not” – Davenport declared.  “If it is not -- there’s no cause for adjournment! If it is -- I advise we be found doing our duty!  And so brothers, I propose -- let the candles be brought in immediately -- so we can get on with the business of the colony!”

Not a bad idea, given any fear or any darkness.  Let the candles be brought in – so we can continue our duty – specifically our duty to Christ and His Cause.   For Jesus does reign -- Jesus is majestic -- now!  Thus, emulate Him, live for Him – in the present tense, not just the future tense.

So anticipate the second coming, but don’t wait for the second coming.  Rather live for Jesus -- now – cleaning up your life – doing your duty – lifting up His light!   For Jesus is the Light of the World – now.    Sure when Jesus comes again -- there will be light and glory.  But we have light and glory now! For through the Holy Spirit, we have Jesus now!  

And guess what:  Jesus is enough!   No matter the emergency – no matter the dread – no matter the apocalyptic prediction -- in the end -- Jesus is enough!  And so harbor hope, not hysteria.  Focus on the person of the parousia, not the particulars.  For in the end, Jesus is enough!  And so come, Lord Jesus! Come!  Both today and tomorrow – come!   As we lift up -- in any circumstance -- your glory, your majesty -- your incredible, marvelous – hope-full --light!