“The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work.” (1 John 3:8); “He (Jesus) disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.” (Col. 2:15); “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! (Rev. 22:20)
Lord Jesus, how long must we wait? When will the “devil’s work” be eradicated, once and for all? We cry out for the Day of no more missiles flying and children cowering, the Day of no more bombast and bombs from evil dictators. We feel helpless. We lament. We long for your “soon” return. Please make it sooner.
The merciless pillaging of the Ukraine is fueling our laments and longings. Our solace is in Satan’s crushed head, broken dominion, and coming elimination. Right now, the devil is “filled with fury, because he knows his time is short” (Rev. 12:12). Make it even shorter, Jesus.
We will not give fear more power over our hearts than the truth and riches of the Gospel. The courage of the Ukrainians, their kindness towards young Russian soldiers they have captured; pastors and missionaries remaining in the land to love and serve in your name… Jesus, all of it is combines to wake us from our slumber, thaw out our chilled hearts, compel us to live and love to your glory.
Your bold cry from the cross, “It is finished,” is our peace and joy. Your post-resurrection declaration, “ALL authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me,” is our sanity. Your trustworthy promise, “Surely I am coming soon,” is our sure, much-treasured hope. So Very Amen.
