Great Expectations
Here are some further devotional thoughts based on the sermon:
Embracing the Sunrise: Reflect on the imagery of Jesus as the "sun of righteousness" rising with healing in its wings. Just as the sunrise brings light, warmth, and new beginnings to the earth, Jesus brings spiritual illumination, restoration, and hope to our lives. Take a moment to meditate on how Jesus's presence can dispel darkness and bring healing to your heart and soul.
Living in the Light: Consider how Jesus, as the Light of the world, reveals truth and exposes the darkness within us. Spend time in prayer, asking Jesus to illuminate areas of your life where you need clarity, guidance, and transformation. Allow his light to shine into every corner of your heart, bringing healing and renewal.
Restoring Righteousness: Reflect on the promise of Jesus to make all things right when he returns. Consider the injustices and brokenness you see in the world around you and surrender them to Jesus, trusting in his ultimate justice and restoration. Ask God to give you the strength and courage to pursue righteousness and seek justice in your own life and community.
Experiencing Freedom: Contemplate the freedom and joy that come from knowing Jesus as Savior and Lord. Reflect on areas of your life where you may be feeling trapped or burdened by sin, fear, or uncertainty. Surrender those areas to Jesus, trusting in his promise to set you free and fill your heart with his peace and joy.
Anticipating Jesus's Return: Consider the significance of living with a sense of anticipation and readiness for Jesus's return. Reflect on the ways you can cultivate a deeper longing for his coming and live each day with a sense of purpose and urgency in light of eternity. Spend time in prayer, asking God to prepare your heart and help you live faithfully as you await the glorious return of Jesus Christ.
Sharing the Hope: Think about how you can share the hope and joy of Jesus's return with others. Consider practical ways you can demonstrate Christ's love and grace to those around you, pointing them to the hope found in a relationship with Jesus. Pray for opportunities to share the good news of Jesus with boldness and compassion, trusting in the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of those you encounter.
As you reflect on these devotional thoughts, may you be encouraged and inspired to draw closer to Jesus, embrace his promises, and live with a sense of hope and anticipation for the glorious day of his return.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Understanding Prophecy: What do you think Malachi meant by describing the coming of the Messiah as a "sun of righteousness"? How does this imagery impact your understanding of Jesus's second coming?
Believer vs. Non-Believer Perspectives: Rev. Smith contrasts the reactions of believers and non-believers to Jesus's return. How does this distinction shape our understanding of the significance of Jesus's second coming?
Symbolism in Malachi's Prophecy: The sermon highlights various symbolic images used by Malachi, such as the rising sun, beams of righteousness, and wings of healing. Which of these images resonates with you the most, and why?
Freedom and Joy in Christ: Rev. Smith emphasizes the freedom and joy that believers will experience in the presence of Jesus. How does the promise of freedom in Christ impact the way we live our lives as Christians?
Personal Response to Jesus: Reflecting on the sermon, how does the promise of Jesus's return shape your daily life and perspective? In what ways can we prepare ourselves spiritually for the second coming of Jesus?
Sharing the Hope of Jesus: How can we effectively communicate the hope and joy found in Jesus's return to those who may not yet believe? What practical steps can we take to share the message of hope with others?
Living in Anticipation: As Christians, how can we maintain a sense of anticipation and readiness for Jesus's return in our daily lives? What spiritual disciplines or practices can help us stay focused on the hope of his coming?
These discussion questions can help facilitate deeper reflection and dialogue among individuals or small groups about the sermon's themes and implications for Christian faith and life.