“So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him” (Hebrews 9:28).

What a powerful statement about what Jesus did for us! He died so that we, who deserved to die, can live. When He was sacrificed for us He not only took away our sin but satisfied the punishment we deserved to face. We have a life that will last through eternity because are trusting Jesus and His death in our place.

That is looking back on His first coming. What He died to obtain for us will be fully consummated when He comes again. He will complete the salvation we long to see. Now there is death, suffering, temptation and battles we must face. When He returns there will no longer be a need for hospitals and cemeteries. He will bring an end to injustice and wickedness.

The only qualification mentioned by the writer of Hebrews is an important one. “To those who are waiting for Him.” Too many people live without giving Jesus a thought. Too many ignore Him completely. Those of us who have believed in Him live with the constant thought of our future in His presence.

When He comes to bring the final benefit of our salvation—eternity in His presence—He will find us not only waiting for Him but living with eager expectation of His return.