Reflecting on Acts 1:1-11“This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven,
will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:11)
What will Jesus be like when He returns?
In Revelation 19:11-16, Jesus is described as coming as a warrior king.
Blazing eyes, waging war, sword from His mouth striking down the nations.
Treading the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty.
But this is not “in the same way” He left us.
I understand the Revelation vision as apocalyptic, not literal.
It uses worldly symbols and images to convey His victory over evil.
But He does not wage war with worldly weapons, but with God’s power.
And God’s power is humility, grace and compassion, the fruit of the Spirit!
Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8).
He will come as He left, as a humble, gracious compassionate king.
His gracious love will overcome those who are committed to hate and hurt.
How we respond to His humility, grace and compassion will determine our destiny.
Jesus ascended to His throne in quietness and weakness, a gentle servant king.
His return will be in the same way – revealing the true glory and power of God!
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, we cannot imagine power without violence. Yet You have shown us that God reigns with humility, grace and compassion. Help us to rule with You through them as we await Your coming in the power and glory of humility, grace and compassion!
Our God reigns, our God reigns, our God reigns,
our God reigns, our God reigns!
In the same way He will return. He reigns by His love and majesty. And until He returns to gather His own, I need to be an instrument of His peace, sharing His love for the people until He comes and/or until he takes me home.