Mark 13:36 says, “If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping.” “He” refers to the owner of the house, Jesus. We are his servants. He’s coming to his creation. What a glorious thought! I am so looking forward to it. The first six months of Grace’s life was a period of darkness for me both emotionally and spiritually. One thing that kept me going was the notion that anytime Jesus could come to end the darkness around me. I imagined these two words written on the brick over the mantle as I rocked Grace to sleep: maybe today.

As depressed as I was, I never wished to leave the world, especially my newborn baby and my husband behind. The thought of Grace growing up without a mother terrified me. I wanted to be rescued from the darkness. Since then, over eight years now, this hopeful expectation has become my daily companion. When life around me starts falling apart, individually or worldwide, I say a prayer of three simple but powerful words: come, Lord Jesus. I fix my heart on His second coming.

When I go and visit the Juvenile girls in the jail, I sometimes tell them about the hopeful expectancy of Jesus coming at any second. In the twinkling of an eye, we will be with Jesus; no more cells, walls, or detention officers. This news brings a sparkle to their eyes and a smile to their lips.

That is the hope we have. It cannot be taken away. That is one of the greatest gifts Jesus gave to His followers. We will be rescued by our “Knight in Shining Armor” and live with Him forever.

What a magnificent hope.

God bless you and your loved ones!

Meryem Kennedy