Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. - 2 Timothy 4:8 (ESV)
While this verse seems to tip the 'appearing' to Christ's return, I could see this referring back to His first appearing as seen in v 1:10 (and thus dragging the 4:1 'appearing' with it). The part that struck me wasn't which 'appearing' Paul is talking about, but loving this appearing.
There is a crown for those who loved His appearing. Not a love that was once held but now is gone. Instead a love that has been established in the heart of the lover. And the object of this love - His appearing. Jesus in all His glory revealed is the recipient of this love.
In one sense, it doesn't matter which appearing Paul is talking about here, either first or second. We are, in fact, to love both. We love both because we love our Lord.
What do I long for? Where does my desire rest? The possibility of not paying bills or having car problems? A corruption-free and efficient government? No, our hope must rest of Christ alone. We must love His appearance in our lives; we must eagerly await His return for us.
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