The Date Heaven Keeps Secret

We circle birthdays and anniversaries in ink. We count down the days to holidays. But there is one date that heaven guards in silence - the day the Lord returns.

On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus looked into the worried faces of His disciples and spoke words that still bring us peace today:

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions… I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself.” (John 14:1–4)

He knew their fears, their failures - even Peter’s coming denial - yet He promised: “I’m coming back for you.”

But He also spoke a truth that continues to challenge us: “Of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.” (Matthew 24:36)

It is the only event on God’s calendar kept completely secret. Signs may point to the season, but the exact moment remains hidden. That’s why Jesus warns: “See to it that no one deceives you… For many will come in My name, claiming, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many.” (Matthew 24:4–5)

So how do we wait for an event with no countdown?

Like wise servants who keep the house ready even when the master seems delayed. Like the bridesmaids who kept their lamps full of oil, prepared for the midnight cry (Matthew 25:1–13).

By examining our hearts - “Test yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.” (2 Corinthians 13:5)

By letting grace shape us into people who “shine like lights in a crooked and perverse generation.” (Philippians 2:15)

Paul reminds us to “work out [our] salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12), not in panic, but in steady faithfulness. And we hold fast to the assurance that His grace will keep us standing (2 Peter 1:10–11).

“Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me.” (Revelation 22:12)

The Lord’s return will be sudden - “like a

thief in the night” (1 Thessalonians 5:2). But for those who are His, what seems unexpected to the world will be a moment of indescribable joy.

We often hear the phrase, “Live like it’s your last day.” Jesus calls us to something even greater: live ready for the day He returns.

Readiness isn’t fear-driven; it’s a daily walk of faith, obedience, and hope. Live not just as if today were your last, but as if Jesus could return today.