Living between the two appearings

Continuing the idea of one of my old hymns on Sundays:

With one eye looking back to when
the grace of God appeared,
and one eye looking on to where
all history is steered,
we navigate our path through ‘now’,
while treasured, guided here below.

He came, and gave himself for us,
redeemed us from our sin,
and slavery to wickedness,
to purify within:
we will turn from ungodliness,
and atheistic foolishness.

And as we wait for his return,
we’re eager to do good;
enticing, passing passions spurn,
set store on things of God;
preparing for his presence soon,
our loving and beloved Bridegroom.

Tune: 86.86.88 eg Palmyra by Joseph Summers

For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope – the glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. Titus 2:11-14

http://rhiannonshymns.co.uk/