Bite-Sized: Why Hasn't Jesus Returned?

"But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed." - 2 Peter 3:8-10

Some complain that Jesus is taking too long to come back. Some complain that He took too long to come the first time. But Peter's statement gives us some pretty good perspective on why God has done what He's done and is doing what He's doing.

Jesus has not returned yet because he is "patient toward you". He is patient and longsuffering, delaying His return for our sake and for the sake of the unsaved. The fact that Jesus has not returned is an example of His mercy, not some perceived impotence. We, as Christians, are heralds of the coming Lord and every minute that we breathe is a minute given to us to proclaim His glory. There is still more of your life to devote to Him and there are still people in the world who don't know and have not applied the Great News of Jesus Christ. Let us do as He commanded. Let's make disciples who live a life pleasing to God and who love Him with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. Because don't worry. He will come back. And when He does, you and I will be without excuse.