The concept of living in expectation is deeply rooted in the Christian faith, emphasizing a life characterized by hope, anticipation, and readiness for the fulfillment of God's promises. This expectation is not passive but active, influencing the believer's daily conduct, decisions, and spiritual outlook.

Biblical Foundation

1. Hope in God's Promises: The Bible frequently encourages believers to live with a hopeful expectation of God's promises. In Romans 8:24-25, the Apostle Paul writes, "For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently." This passage underscores the essence of living in expectation—trusting in what is not yet visible but assured by faith.

2. The Return of Christ: A significant aspect of Christian expectation is the anticipation of Christ's return. In Titus 2:13, believers are urged to live "while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ." This expectation shapes a life of holiness and readiness, as seen in Matthew 24:44, where Jesus instructs, "So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."

3. Prayer and Expectation: Living in expectation is also reflected in the believer's prayer life. James 1:6 encourages believers to ask in faith, "without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." This verse highlights the importance of expecting God to answer prayers, reinforcing a trust in His faithfulness and timing.

Practical Implications

1. Vigilance and Readiness: The parable of the ten virgins in Matthew 25:1-13 illustrates the necessity of being prepared for the Lord's coming. The wise virgins, who kept their lamps filled with oil, represent those who live in constant readiness and expectation. This vigilance is a call to spiritual alertness and moral integrity.

2. Perseverance in Trials: Expectation provides strength and perseverance during trials. Romans 5:3-5 states, "Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." This passage reveals how expectation is intertwined with endurance and spiritual growth.

3. Active Engagement in God's Work: Living in expectation motivates believers to engage actively in God's work. In 1 Corinthians 15:58, Paul exhorts, "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." This assurance encourages believers to invest their time and resources in the Kingdom, anticipating the eternal impact of their efforts.

Examples from Scripture

1. Abraham's Faith: Abraham is a quintessential example of living in expectation. Hebrews 11:8-10 recounts how "by faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place he would later receive as an inheritance. He went out, not knowing where he was going." Abraham's life was marked by a forward-looking faith, trusting in God's promises despite not seeing their immediate fulfillment.

2. Simeon and Anna: In Luke 2:25-38, Simeon and Anna exemplify living in expectation as they awaited the Messiah's arrival. Simeon, "righteous and devout," was "waiting for the consolation of Israel," and Anna, a prophetess, "spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem." Their lives were characterized by anticipation and recognition of God's unfolding plan.

Conclusion

Living in expectation is a dynamic and transformative aspect of the Christian life, rooted in faith, hope, and the assurance of God's promises. It calls believers to a life of readiness, perseverance, and active participation in God's redemptive work, as they await the ultimate fulfillment of His divine purposes.