A recent University of Maryland newsletter described a section of Baltimore known as Little
Lithuania. Lithuanians are known for their love of their native land (part of the Soviet Union since
World War II) and their desire for its independence. One couple was mentioned in the newsletter
"who buy food on a day-to-day basis, awaiting word that Lithuania has been freed."

This couple reminds us in several ways of the attitude which should characterize Christians who
are awaiting their Lord’s return. First, they are ready to leave at a moment’s notice. They have
arranged their lives so that there will be nothing to detain them when the good news arrives. We
are not advocating buying food on a day-to-day basis, but we do think Christians should examine
their way of life in view of the hope of the Lord’s imminent return. Are we accumulating earthly
treasure at the expense of the heavenly? Would our sudden departure cause others to suffer loss,
financially or otherwise? Are we "redeeming the time" so that we can leave quickly without
regret? Would we be leaving behind any unfinished work due to procrastination, such as giving
a gospel tract to an unsaved acquaintance, or confessing and making restitution for an offense
toward a neighbor?

Second, the Lithuanian couple evidently have made no emotional commitment to this country.
Their heart is still in Lithuania. No doubt they obey the laws and pay their taxes, but they are not
worried about the future of the United States nor are their interests involved in the activities going
on here. Surely we should live in this world as "strangers and pilgrims" (Heb. 11:13), honoring
the authorities, but not actively getting involved in directing the worldly course of events. Our
hearts should be in heaven where we long to be as soon as the Lord wills.

Finally, their hope has never wavered although it has been deferred many years. No doubt, many
have said to this couple, "You know it will be many years before Lithuania is free, if ever. Why
don’t you relax and enjoy yourselves?" Perhaps even some of their fellow expatriates consider
them eccentric. Many in the world today are saying that the Lord’s coming is wishful thinking.
Even some professed Christians have given up this hope or say that He will not come until certain
events have occurred. Many of those who say they believe in the Lord’s coming live as if they do
not. We should guard diligently against being influenced by these attitudes. Let us not waver in
our hope nor in the practical expression of this hope in our lives.