Our scripture this morning is 1 Corinthians 15:20-28.
But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. But each in turn: Christ, the firstfruits; then, when he comes, those who belong to him. Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death. For he “has put everything under his feet.” Now when it says that “everything” has been put under him, it is clear that this does not include God himself, who put everything under Christ. When he has done this, then the Son himself will be made subject to him who put everything under him, so that God may be all in all.
Paul teaches about the Resurrection and Christ’s return that we might better understand God’s plan for us. He reminds us that sin came into the world by human choice. It is also by choice that we can be redeemed – God has already chosen us, we must then also choose to be part of His kingdom.
Jesus came to us as a man that in Him we could see what God intended for all humanity. When He returns for us, we will see His divine nature, the connection He has with God and the connection all believers will have through Him. This is the promise of faith offered to us.
We don’t know when He will return but we know it will happen. We must be prepared for His coming in the way we live every day. By making our hearts and minds ready here, we will be ready to be with Him in eternity.
Gracious God, we are grateful for the gift of our Savior. Help us to hear Your word and share Your love with all the world. Amen.