With 2021 just around the corner, many are most likely looking forward to new things. Perhaps some will be setting new goals; others may be excited about a new start; for sure many are anxious about a new vaccine. Yes, a new year is expected very soon.
 
But guess what’s even sooner than 2021? Christ’s return! I often find it hard to think that way, but it is nonetheless true. After all, Christ could come back today. In the next hour. While you’re reading this post. Or this word. Or the next one. If he were to, that would undoubtedly be sooner than 2021. So the reality, as hard as it is to keep top of mind, is that Christ’s return is sooner than next year.
 
This truth is repeated three times in the final 15 verses of the Bible, indicating it should be something we keep front and center, not only this year, but every year. Notice the three reminders from Jesus:

• Rev. 22:7 — “Behold, I am coming soon. Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.” This first reminder rings with the theme of obedience and urges us to remember our responsibility to follow our Lord’s commands even while we are waiting.
• Rev. 22:12 – “Behold I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done.” Whether it’s rewards for believers or judgment for unbelievers, this second reminder contains a stark warning that there is an accounting to our Creator.
• Rev. 22:20 – “…Surely I am coming soon. Amen. Come Lord Jesus!” This third and closing reminder drips with desire, and shows John longingly affirming Jesus’ promise with a “So be it,” followed by a heartfelt and personal request to do it quickly.   

These three reminders not only indicate immediacy, but they also suggest importance. And rightly so! Whatever we are looking forward to in 2021, nothing rivals the return of our Redeemer. It is not only the next event on God’s calendar, but should be the one thing for which we long deeply, anticipate hopefully, and wait obediently.
 
Its importance can further highlighted by this bit of biblical trivia: Christ’s return is mentioned 318 times in the 260 chapters of the New Testament, meaning it is referenced, on average, 1 out of every 30 verses. In fact, 23 of the 27 New Testament books refer to it. Without question, it’s clear it matters.
 
Does it matter to you? Are you looking for the blessed hope of our Lord’s return? Is your heart praying daily, “Jesus, come quickly?” Are you living with urgency in light of its immediacy? May God use these Revelation reminders to reform our minds so that his saints live and long for the return of his Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ.