As Christians, we are told to live in anticipation of Christ’s return. But what does that look like practically? How can we prepare our hearts and lives for the second coming of Jesus, which the Bible says will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:2)?

First and foremost, preparing spiritually involves deepening our relationship with God. This means prioritizing prayer, studying Scripture, and allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us. Jesus told His disciples to “watch and pray” (Matthew 26:41), emphasizing the need to stay spiritually alert.

Another aspect of preparation is living a life of holiness. In 2 Peter 3:11, we are reminded that “since everything will be destroyed, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives.” This doesn’t mean striving for perfection, but it does mean intentionally pursuing righteousness and aligning our lives with God’s will.

We also prepare by fulfilling the mission Christ gave us—to make disciples of all nations. The Great Commission is not just for missionaries but for every believer. Sharing the gospel and helping others grow in their faith is a key part of preparing for Christ’s return.

Finally, spiritual preparation involves living with an eternal perspective. We are called to fix our eyes on the things above (Colossians 3:2), not getting overly caught up in the temporary concerns of this world. By staying focused on Christ and His Kingdom, we can be ready whenever He returns.