The early Christians believed that the return of Christ could happen at any moment. This belief was rooted in the teachings of Jesus, who said that no one knows the day or the hour of his return (Matthew 24:36). As a result, the early Christians lived with a sense of urgency, knowing that the return of Christ could happen at any time.

 

This belief in the imminent return of Christ had a profound impact on the early Christian community. It motivated them to live holy and righteous lives, to share the gospel with others, and to love one another as Christ loved them. It also gave them hope and comfort in the midst of persecution and suffering, knowing that Christ would one day return and set all things right.

 

Some 2 000 years later, Christ’s return is still imminent but it’s easy to become a little complacent and to take the incredible gift of God’s grace for granted. This grace not only saves us, but it also teaches us how to live. It empowers us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age.

 

Today, let’s live with the sense of urgency of the early Church as we allow the grace of God to transform our lives. Let's say "No" to the things that pull us away from God, and instead, live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives. Let's wait in hopeful anticipation for the return of Jesus Christ, knowing that He will come again.

 

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the gift of your grace. Help us to embrace it fully and to allow it to transform our lives. Give us the strength to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and live every day with the knowledge of your love and grace. Amen.