Read Acts 1:1-11 

Acts 1:9-11, "And when he (Jesus) had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. 10And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; 11Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."

One of the great truths of Scripture is the fact of Jesus' return to the earth.  It is exciting to contemplate this fact and to learn some of the elements involved in His return.

• Christians should live in expectation of His return (Titus 2:13)

• Christians should live ready for His return (Matthew 24:44)

• Christians should serve Him until the day of His return (Luke 19:13)

• Christians should desire His return (Revelation 22:20)

Jesus Himself promised both His departure and His return:  John 14:2-3, "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you.  I go to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also."

Jesus Christ is returning to this earth in the same body and in the same fashion as He departed, "...this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."

Thank God, Jesus is coming again!  Keep Looking Up!

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  Read Titus 2:13.  Are you looking for the return of Christ?  If not, why not?

2.  Read Matthew 24:44.  Are you ready for the return of Christ?  How can you prepare?

3.  Study the phrase “Occupy till I come” in Luke 19:13.  What did Jesus mean?

4.  Are you so wrapped up in the world that you don’t want Jesus to return? Explain.