Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2
Perfect Timing
It’s hard for us to time things perfectly. We try to time our commute just right, but we hit traffic and we’re late. Is there even such a thing as perfect timing?
The one who alone is perfect and holy has perfect timing. The Lord’s timing is perfect. This is true of all he does. He knows when best to bless us and to redirect us. He provides all things according to his perfect will and perfect timing. When the time was right, he sent his Son, Jesus Christ, into this world to save the world from sin. At just the right time, Jesus will come again on the last day. It will be the day of destruction for those who do not believe in him, but the day of salvation from this decaying world for those who believe in him.
As we learn about that day, we might become troubled about the timing. We ask, “Why doesn’t Jesus come back now?” as we look at the world around us and see evil, or we look at our lives when we’re in pain or sorrow and wish Jesus could come now to rescue us. Jesus knows about your struggles, and he cares. He will come to bring relief, and not a moment too late.
Other times, we worry that Jesus will come too soon. We might think, “What about people who haven’t heard about Jesus?” Jesus knows all things and has thought this through better than we have. He cares about people who haven’t heard of him, and this is one reason he hasn’t yet returned. He will come and not a moment too soon.
While we wait, we trust in the Lord’s perfect timing. When we are troubled, we can remember that we are in God’s hands. When we are concerned about those who haven’t heard the good news about Jesus, we can be the ones to share it.
Prayer:
Lord, as we wait for the day you will return, give us confidence that your timing is always perfect. Amen.
