Maranatha is used once in the New Testament at the conclusion of 1 Corinthians. The word is Aramaic in origin and the exact meaning is debated among scholars.
The ESV translates it as “Our Lord, come” (1 Cor 16:22). But others have advocated: “Our Lord has come” and “Our Lord is come [is present].”
It is often the cry of an anguished heart that looks toward judgment and restoration of all things. It is common among believers during times of great tragedy. Twitter recently lit up with “Maranatha,” following the Haitian earthquake and Afghanistan’s chaos. It was also my plea at the time.
However, is maranatha my prayer on my best days? Or, do I love the blessings of God so much that I prefer them over Him? Do I only want His Kingdom to come when I am facing difficulty?
Is maranatha my prayer:
A month before my wedding day?
A week before my child’s birth?
When the church is considering calling me to be their next pastor?
When my book is to be published in two weeks?
Before I start my new job with increased salary?
May we remember that nothing on our best days can compare with what is to come.
For, of course, what could make your very b st day better than being with the Lord?
For those of us engaged in disciples making, Maranatha is also part of prayer walking in a new neighborhood, an invitation for Jesus to make himself known through the word and love in action to a community where He is not yet known.
Maranatha, come Lord Jesus!
Thank you, Dana.