Elephant in the Room — The Impending Return of Jesus - Friday
Today’s Verse
Matthew 24:36
But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. (ESV)
My middle school football team was exceptionally good. In fact, we were undefeated. Being teammates with talented inner-city kids had its advantages—even if it did mean I hardly ever played offense. The defensive backfield became my focus, relying on my speed as much as I could, especially as a new player still learning the game.
Scanning the opposing sideline, I looked into the stands. My dad never missed a game, but I knew he wouldn’t be there tonight. We were on the road for the district championship, and he had to be at work by midnight.
“Hall! You’re in on kickoff return!!” my coach yelled.
I’d never done that before—was he crazy?!
Doing my best not to panic, I stood in the end zone waiting for the ball. A high, lofty kick allowed the defense to get there fast, hitting me hard almost as soon as I caught it, giving us horrible field position.
“Why didn’t you take a knee in the end zone?! Touchback!!!” my coaches screamed.
Oh, yeah. Forgot I could do that.
Feeling discouraged—I plopped down on the bench, seeing stars after having my bell rung. Holding back tears of disappointment, I found myself praying Coach would put someone else in. But after a quick score by the other team, he called my number once again.
But this time when I looked up, I saw my dad standing near the sideline, leaning up against the fence.
Giving me a big thumbs up, he smiled as if to say, “You thought I wouldn’t make it!”
The next kick bounced short, allowing me to catch it on the run and gain momentum. As I sprinted up the field for a big return, my teammates erupted. Did I really just do that?
My football career was short-lived, but there are many days when life still hits hard. Ministry can be brutal, and there are plenty of moments I find myself thinking, “Why am I in this position? I have no idea what I’m doing…”
But if you’re anything like me, you play a lot better when you know your Dad is watching. And our Father always is.
Today’s verse reminds us that one day, when we least expect it, we’ll look up and He really will be there. Only He knows when this day will come—but when it comes, everyone will celebrate His big return.
Until then, we will worship defiantly, with tears running down our faces—and take the field together—with His name on our jersey.
Because while we are waiting, our Dad is always watching.
APPLICATION
Have you worshipped defiantly recently? Check out our Southland Music playlist or mark your calendar for our next First Wednesday Worship on October 1!
PRAYER
Father, help us rejoice even when life is hard, and worship you even in the midst of our pain. Amen.
