Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.

Devotion based on Hebrews 9:27,28

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Who is the one person who makes you feel safe? Who is the one person that when you are with them, everything just seems right in the world, no matter what is going on around you? Maybe it’s your mom, dad, grandparent, sister, brother, or friend. That’s the person you want with you when things are tough, when you’re waiting at the doctor or dentist, when you’re touring a new school, or when you’re facing something scary or sad. No matter how difficult something may be, it’s easier with that one person by your side.

I want you to imagine a scene that’s a little scary. You’re sitting in a courtroom. But you’re not just sitting in the room; you’re on trial for something you’ve done wrong! Now, you’re at the mercy of the judge. He decides whether you’re innocent or guilty, whether you’ll be punished or can go free.

It may give comfort to have that one person who loves and cares about you and makes everything a little better sitting in the room. But what if that person isn’t just in the room? Instead, that person who loves and cares about you is the judge? That would certainly change the way you think about being on trial, wouldn’t it?

Our focus this week is judgment day—when all people will be judged. Today’s Bible lesson changes the way we think about that day. God’s Word reminds us that we can be excited about and long for this day, like a vacation that’s happening next week or like the best day of your life is about to happen.

Why is judgment day a good thing? Because of Jesus. Because all the bad things we’ve ever done were already paid for by Jesus on the cross. Being a Christian means believing that you’re judged as holy in God’s sight because of Jesus. It means you are safe because your loving God is your judge.

For believers who are waiting for Jesus—you and me—judgment day is simply salvation day—the day when Jesus brings us to heaven. That’s something to be excited about!

Dear heavenly Father, keep us always connected to Jesus and his saving Word that we might remain strong in the faith and ready for your return. Give us the courage to share your saving gospel with others. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Questions for Middle School and Above