The book of Revelation is full of vivid imagery — seals opened, trumpets blasting, bowls of wrath poured out, calamities, trials, and the persecution of God’s people.

We see the beast at war with the saints and a multitude clothed in white, made righteous by Christ.

Then, at the end, Christ returns in judgment. The devil is cast into the lake of fire, and a new creation begins as Jesus declares, “Behold, I am making all things new.”

But that new creation hasn’t come yet. So when will it?

Revelation 22 tells us: “Behold, I am coming soon.”

The word “soon” can also mean “quickly” — in other words, his return could happen at any moment.

Many try to map out exactly when Jesus will return—debating tribulation timelines, antichrist figures, or world governments.

But Scripture consistently teaches us to be ready.

Jesus uses parables about absent kings and returning landowners to remind us that his return will be sudden and unexpected.

Throughout church history, Christians have believed Jesus could return in their lifetime — and that’s wise.

Just look around: wars, disasters, widespread persecution. All these echo Revelation’s warnings.

So we live in readiness, not fear.

Because the Jesus who will come to judge is the same Jesus who was already judged for our sin on the cross.

He brings forgiveness, life, and the promise of a new creation. He’s coming quickly. Let us be ready — with repentant hearts and confident hope.

Contributor Matthew Zickler is pastor at Grace Lutheran Church in Western Springs, IL.

#higherthings #lcms #lutheran #jesus

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