The Return of the King

The streets were crowded with men in uniform.

Some wore bright green vests which reflected the sunlight toward on-coming traffic. With wooden push brooms, men could be found sweeping the city streets and sidewalks. Buckets hanging from their belts, many worked up and down the streets adding a fresh coat of alternating red and white paint to the curbs. Still others stood on ladders at each billboard covering over the many aging ads.

Some had blue uniforms. But not the blue uniforms I have grown accustomed to seeing. These uniforms appeared new. The blue was deeper; the white, cleaner. The style was more elegant. For many of these policemen, I could not decide if today they would protect and serve or, perhaps, abandon their post for a great banquet.

Some had green and brown camouflage uniforms. These carried heavy machine guns slung over their shoulders and wore dark brown boots. Soldiers were out in force on this particular day. To an ignorant foreigner this would be an alarming sight; a possible allusion to an upcoming battle or invasion.

Some had red uniforms. These were the most professional, and best dressed. They were well armed wearing slanted hats similar to those donned by American green berets. Scattered here and there, they took charge giving orders and supervising the final preparations. All of my country knows them as the king's personal guard.

Wet paint, clean streets, and freshly pressed uniforms. This is what happens when the king comes to town. No one knows the day or the hour, but the signs are telling. Not a street corner can be found without a huddle of police officers. Not a billboard stands without a portrait of the king himself. National flags are flown in abundance as far as the eye can see.

The city comes to life in anticipation. From all walks of life, the people work together to prepare, wondering if, perhaps, they may see or even be seen by the king. At the time of his arrival, everything is in order. The traffic parts to make way for his caravan, each paying their respect as he comes in earthly glory.

There is, indeed, a King coming. His coming has been prophesied and promised. It has been said that He will establish His sovereignty over all mankind. This King will come with complete power and authority, even bearing a sword, yet He is rich in mercy, love, and compassion. He perfectly wields both justice and grace. Our King will wipe away every tear. Our King will make right every wrong. Our King will rule in glory for all eternity.

His divine edict: be ready. Prepare the way for Him. The day and hour are not known, but He has commanded that our hearts continually anticipate His return. Let us seek to have clean hearts in preparation of His coming. Let us seek to put off our old and dying self in order to bear His image. Let us live as though He were already here, making disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that He has commanded.