22nd Dec 2024 Sermon Topic: Maranatha – O Lord, Come: A Call for Hope and Strength
As we journey through life, we are faced with numerous challenges, trials, and moments of doubt. In the midst of hardship, we often find ourselves longing for something greater — a divine intervention, a restoration of peace, and a renewal of hope. In the Scriptures, there is a powerful word, “Maranatha,” which means “O Lord, come.” This word is not only a prayer of longing but also a reminder of the hope we have in Jesus Christ, who will one day return to make all things right. Today, let us explore the significance of this word and how it can bring comfort and strength to our lives.
The Origin and Meaning of “Maranatha”
“Maranatha” is an Aramaic term, used during the time of the early church. It is composed of two parts: “Maran,” meaning “our Lord” or “the Lord,” and “atha,” meaning “has come” or “come.” Together, they form a cry that embodies both an urgent prayer for Christ’s return and a bold affirmation that He will indeed come again. The Apostle Paul uses this term in 1 Corinthians 16:22, saying, “If anyone does not love the Lord, let that person be cursed! Maranatha.” This statement carries the weight of both prophecy and longing, marking a time of anticipation for the glorious return of Jesus Christ.
This cry, “Maranatha,” became more than just a word—it was a cry of hope and a reminder for early Christians to persevere through trials, knowing that Christ’s return would bring justice, peace, and restoration.
Historical Context: A Word for the Persecuted Church
In the days of the early Christian church, believers faced significant persecution. The promise of Christ’s return was not merely a theological concept—it was a beacon of hope for those suffering under harsh conditions. The use of “Maranatha” was not just a prayer but an expression of faith in the midst of hardship. It reminded them that even in their darkest moments, there was hope that Christ would return to establish His kingdom, bringing an end to suffering and injustice.
The Language of Jesus: Aramaic and the Early Church
The term “Maranatha” is a window into the early Christian world, where Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus, was prevalent. This connection between the language of Christ and the early church underscores the deep continuity of God’s plan from the Old Testament through to the New. Just as the Israelites longed for the coming of the Messiah, we too continue that longing for the second coming of Christ.
1. The Anticipation of God’s Word – Deuteronomy 18:15-22
In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses tells the people of Israel that God will raise up a prophet like him to guide them in the truth. This promise of a prophet points to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh (John 1:14). The Israelites, overwhelmed by the fear of hearing God’s voice directly, asked Moses to intercede for them, which led to God’s promise to send a prophet. Moses was a faithful servant, but the prophecy looked ahead to the One who would bring God’s final and complete message to the world: Jesus Christ.
The arrival of Jesus was the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a prophet who would speak His words and bring salvation. Just as the Israelites were waiting for that prophet, we, too, are waiting for Christ’s return, when all things will be restored. The word “Maranatha,” meaning “O Lord, come,” echoes this longing for Christ’s second coming and the fulfillment of His promises.
2. The Lord is Our Rock – Psalm 28
Psalm 28 is a heartfelt cry to God in times of distress. David, the psalmist, calls out to God as his Rock, his strength, and his shield. He cries for mercy and pleads for justice against the wicked. He is confident in God’s ability to protect and deliver him, praising God for hearing his cry.
In our own lives, we often face moments where the weight of our struggles feels unbearable, and we wonder if God hears our prayers. Psalm 28 reminds us that, even in the darkest times, God is our Rock — our constant refuge. This message of trust and faith in God’s deliverance should fuel our prayers of “Maranatha” — a prayer that calls for the return of Christ to bring justice, peace, and healing to the world.
As we face challenges in our personal lives, whether they be health problems, financial struggles, or emotional burdens, we can find strength in knowing that God is with us. And in the same way, we look forward to the day when He will come again, wiping away every tear, and establishing His perfect kingdom.
3. The Call to Stand Firm – 1 Corinthians 16:13-24
In Paul’s final instructions to the Corinthian church, he exhorts them to be on guard, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, and do everything in love. These words speak directly to us today. The journey of faith is not always easy, and it requires vigilance and strength to stay firm in the truth.
Paul’s words are a reminder that we are not alone in this journey. Just as the household of Stephanas and others refreshed Paul’s spirit, we too can find encouragement and strength in our Christian community. As we face trials, we are called to stand firm in our faith, remaining rooted in the love and grace of Christ. And as we wait for His return, we are to live with a sense of purpose, doing everything in love.
The call to “Maranatha” — “O Lord, come” — is not just a cry for escape from our troubles but a declaration of trust in God’s ultimate victory. When we stand firm in our faith, we are not only enduring the present struggles but also declaring our hope for the future when Christ will come again to bring justice, peace, and fulfillment to all that we are enduring now.
4. The Word Became Flesh – John 1:1-14
In the Gospel of John, we are reminded of the profound mystery of the Word becoming flesh. Jesus, the eternal Word, took on human form, dwelling among us to bring light and life to the world. His coming was the fulfillment of God’s promise, and His life, death, and resurrection opened the way for us to become children of God.
John’s introduction to Jesus as the Word emphasizes His divine nature and His mission to bring salvation to all. And yet, as we reflect on this passage, we also remember that He has promised to return. As we anticipate His second coming, we can take comfort in the knowledge that the same Jesus who came to us as the Word made flesh will come again to establish God’s Kingdom fully.
Living in Hope and Expectation
As we reflect on the themes of these passages, we are reminded that our hope is not in this world but in the promise of Christ’s return. The cry of “Maranatha” is a call for our Savior to come and bring ultimate justice, peace, and restoration. It is a prayer that reflects our longing for God to set all things right.
In the midst of our struggles and challenges, we can hold fast to the hope that Christ is coming again. We are not abandoned or forgotten; our Lord sees us, hears us, and is with us in every trial. And, just as He came to us in the person of Jesus Christ, we can be assured that He will return to bring His Kingdom in all its fullness.
Prayer – Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, We come before You today with hearts full of longing and hope. We are grateful for the promises You have given us in Your Word, promises that remind us that You are our Rock, our strength, and our shield. In times of distress, we cry out to You, just as David did in Psalm 28, knowing that You hear our prayers. Lord Jesus, we thank You for coming to us in the flesh, for dwelling among us and showing us the way to eternal life. We eagerly await Your return, when You will make all things new. We pray for the strength to stand firm in our faith, to live in love, and to be a witness to Your light in this dark world. Come, Lord Jesus. Maranatha. We look forward to the day when You will return to bring justice, peace, and healing to all the brokenness around us. Until then, help us to trust in Your promises and to live with hope, courage, and love.
In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
As we meditate on the cry of “Maranatha,” may it fill us with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper longing for our Savior’s return. No matter what challenges we face today, we can hold on to the promise that Christ will come again, and He will make all things right. Keep your faith strong, your heart full of hope, and live each day in the love of Christ.