We live between two appearances of Christ—two epiphanies. The first brought grace and salvation; the second will bring glory and consummation. Between these two events, we live in the “in-between.”
The “already” of Christ’s first coming has changed everything about your past. Grace has appeared. Salvation has been accomplished. Your sins have been forgiven. Your shame has been removed. Your debt has been paid. The curse has been broken. Death has been defeated. You are no longer who you once were.
The “not yet” of Christ’s return secures everything about your future. He is coming again in glory. He will complete what He started. He will wipe away every tear. He will make all things new. He will give you a glorified body. You will see Him face to face. Your transformation will be complete. Your joy will be full.
But today, you live in the in-between. And here’s the beautiful truth: grace covers your past, and hope secures your future, which means you can live today without the burden of yesterday’s failures or the anxiety of tomorrow’s uncertainties.
When guilt over past sin weighs you down, remember the “already”, Christ has already dealt with that sin. When fear about the future grips you, remember the “not yet”—Christ is returning, and He holds your future securely.