“Joy to the world, the Lord is come!”

 That’s what they said at the manger in Bethlehem two thousand years ago. That’s what we will also say when He comes again!

The Old Testament presentation of the coming Christ is unique in the sense that it presents both comings but without distinguishing them in a detailed manner. Oftentimes the readers were left scratching their heads about a suffering Messiah (Isaiah 53 and Psalm 22) but also a triumphant Messiah (Isaiah 9:7). How could such be?

The adage of the two mountain ranges is a great way to think about the Old Testament prophecies. Imagine driving on the plains toward a mountain range on the horizon. All of the mountains appear at the same distance. However, upon reaching the mountains you realize what you saw is only the first range of mountains, a range which is followed by a valley which is then followed by another range of mountains (often higher than the previous range). You probably saw both ranges from a great distance, but did not realize there was a distance (and time to cover the distance) between the two ranges.

The two comings of the Messiah have a similar tendency. The Old Testament prophets wrote what God gave them even though they may not have comprehended it. What they wrote is truth, but was likely poorly understood truth because of their distance from the mountains. We, though, have the luxury of living in the valley between the two mountains. Our perspective is much different. We can clearly distinguish the two mountain ranges…and oh, what a difference they are!

The first time Jesus came…

He came veiled in the form of a child.
A star marked His arrival.
Wise men brought Him gifts.
There was no room for Him.
Only a few attended His arrival.
He came as a baby.

The next time Jesus comes…

He will be recognized by all.
Heaven will be lit by His glory.
He will bring rewards for His own.
The world won’t be able to contain His glory.
Every eye shall see Him.
He will come as Sovereign King and Lord of all.

Yes, the next time it will be different! Amen!

 Tom Swartzwelder

Sep 4, 2024 – On September 3, 2024, Tom Swartzwelder completed the race that God had set before him. He is now with Jesus, the author and finisher of his faith.’

Hebrews 12:1-2A

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, ² fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

He provides practical how-to-do-ministry resources for the disciples of Jesus Christ at http://www.godsgreenhouse.net. Tom’s latest book is “God Speaks–Today!”