The concept of "The Desire of Christ" encompasses the deep longing and purpose of Jesus Christ as revealed through His life, teachings, and redemptive work. This desire is multifaceted, reflecting His mission to fulfill the will of the Father, to bring salvation to humanity, and to establish His kingdom.

Fulfillment of the Father's Will

Central to the desire of Christ is His unwavering commitment to fulfill the will of God the Father. In John 6:38, Jesus declares, "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me." This submission to the Father's will is evident throughout His earthly ministry, culminating in His prayer at Gethsemane: "Not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42). Christ's desire to accomplish the divine plan of salvation underscores His obedience and love for the Father.

Salvation of Humanity

The desire of Christ is also profoundly expressed in His mission to save humanity from sin and death. In Luke 19:10, Jesus states, "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost." This salvific purpose is further emphasized in John 3:16, where it is written, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." Christ's sacrificial death on the cross and His resurrection are the ultimate expressions of His desire to redeem and reconcile humanity to God.

Establishment of His Kingdom

Another aspect of Christ's desire is the establishment of His kingdom, both in the hearts of believers and ultimately in the world. Jesus taught His disciples to pray, "Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). This reflects His longing for the reign of God to be realized in the lives of individuals and in the broader creation. The parables of the kingdom, such as the mustard seed and the leaven (Matthew 13:31-33), illustrate the transformative and expansive nature of His kingdom.

Unity and Love Among Believers

Christ's desire also includes the unity and love among His followers. In His high priestly prayer, Jesus prays, "that they may all be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I am in You" (John 17:21). This unity is a testament to the world of the truth of Christ's mission and the love of God. The commandment to love one another, as found in John 13:34, "A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another," further underscores His desire for His disciples to reflect His love.

The Return of Christ

Finally, the desire of Christ includes His return and the consummation of all things. In Revelation 22:20, Jesus affirms, "Yes, I am coming soon." The anticipation of His return is a central hope for believers, as it signifies the final victory over sin and death and the full realization of His kingdom. The desire for His return is echoed in the prayer of the early church, "Come, Lord Jesus" (Revelation 22:20).

In summary, the desire of Christ is a profound and encompassing theme that reveals His heart for obedience to the Father, the salvation of humanity, the establishment of His kingdom, the unity and love among believers, and His anticipated return. These desires are intricately woven into the fabric of His life and mission, offering a glimpse into the divine purpose and love that define His earthly ministry and eternal reign.