The phrase Come Lord Jesus resonates deeply within our faith, embodying a heartfelt prayer for the return of Christ. It has been a source of hope and anticipation for believers throughout centuries. Alongside its biblical roots, the phrase has been for centuries woven into prayers, hymns, and liturgies, reflecting a universal longing for divine intervention and salvation. Come Lord Jesus, a three-word prayer expressed in one Aramaic word, Maranatha, has been expressed in every language and every culture for nearly 2,000 years.
Biblical Origins of “Come Lord Jesus”
Revelation 22:20:
The phrase “Come, Lord Jesus” is explicitly found in Revelation 22:20, where it reads, “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” This declaration, made by Jesus Christ, is affirmed by the author of Revelation, traditionally believed to be John. It serves as a powerful conclusion to the apocalyptic visions and promises recorded in the book, emphasizing the Christian hope in Christ’s return.
Maranatha – An Aramaic Expression:
“Maranatha” is an Aramaic expression that translates to “Our Lord, come!” or “Come, Lord!” Early Christians used this term as a cry of hope and anticipation for the second coming of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul uses “Maranatha” in 1 Corinthians 16:22, underscoring its significance as a prayerful plea during the earliest days of the Christian church.
The invocation Come, Lord Jesus encapsulates the eschatological hope central to Christian belief—the hope in the final victory over sin, death, and evil through the return of Christ. It is a declaration of faith in God’s ultimate plan for redemption and restoration of all creation.
This prayer not only expresses longing for Christ’s return but also serves as a call for believers to live in readiness, embodying the values and teachings of Jesus in anticipation of His coming. It reminds Christians to remain faithful, vigilant, and engaged in the work of the Gospel.
Eschatological Hope: Christian Ethics and Social Action:
The eschatological hope encapsulated by Come, Lord Jesus encourages Christians to live ethically and morally, reflecting the teachings of Jesus in their daily lives. This anticipation fosters a sense of responsibility to embody Christ-like virtues such as love, justice, and compassion, serving as a witness to the kingdom of God that Jesus proclaimed.
