“Maranatha” is an Aramaic word that means “the Lord is coming” or “come, O Lord.” It was a powerful expression of hope and encouragement among the early Christians who endured severe persecution under Roman rule. They could not in good conscience call Caesar "Lord," knowing that there was only one true Lord, Jesus Christ. As a result, they were treated as traitors, hunted down, and often put to death. In the midst of this adversity, "Maranatha!" became their rallying cry—a word that lifted their spirits and reminded them that the Lord would return to set up His kingdom. The believers knew they would not find peace in this world, as Jesus Himself had foretold (Matthew 10:34; Luke 12:51). But they drew strength and comfort from the promise that the Lord was coming back. “Maranatha!” was more than a greeting; it was a declaration of their unwavering hope and faith (Luke 21:28; Revelation 22:12). Today, as followers of Jesus Christ, we live with the same expectation and hope that He could return at any moment. We are called to be ready, always looking forward to His return. The word “Maranatha” reminds us to keep our eyes fixed on eternal things, to stay hopeful, and to encourage one another with the truth of His imminent return. To those who are discouraged today, Maranatha! To those who are anxious or burdened by life's struggles, Maranatha! Our Lord is coming.

1. Marana-tha – “Our Lord, come!”

Many English translations render "Maranatha" as "Marana-tha," meaning “Our Lord, come!” This is a plea and a prayer for Jesus to return and fulfill His promise to bring His people home to heaven (John 14:1-3). It expresses the deep longing of early Christians to see their Lord coming in the clouds to end sin and suffering forever: “The Spirit and the bride say, ‘Come!’ And let him who hears say, ‘Come!’ . . . He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming quickly.’ Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!”(Revelation 22:17, 20,).

Maran-atha – “Our Lord has come!”

Alternatively, "Maranatha" can be understood as "Maran-atha," which means “Our Lord has come!” This interpretation affirms the historic reality of Jesus’ first coming as the Savior of humanity. It reflects a core belief of the early church, celebrating the fact that Christ came to earth, lived among us, and died for our sins (Philippians 2:5-8). A Word That Carries Both Past and Future Hope- The linguistic ambiguity of "Maranatha" is meaningful because it captures both the past and future work of Christ. It looks back to His first coming and looks forward to His promised return. Both meanings are true, and both are equally significant to our faith.

A Living Hope for Today

"Maranatha" continues to be a powerful reminder for all believers to live with expectancy and readiness, knowing that Jesus could return at any moment. It challenges us to stay focused on the eternal, not to be consumed by the temporary struggles of life. Whatever trials or hardships we face, Maranatha is a call to lift our eyes to the horizon of hope. Our Lord is coming soon. So today, in the face of doubt, fear, and uncertainty, we proclaim Maranatha! —Jesus is coming. Let this word of hope and assurance anchor our hearts and fuel our faith until that glorious day when He appears.

MARANATHA drill

When you see a fellow believer, greet them with "Maranatha," reminding them that the Lord is coming. 2) When you meet unbelievers, greet them with "Maranatha" and share the story of the Lord's coming. 3) Say "Come, Lord Jesus!" with both hands raised. "Maranatha," which signifies the Lord's return, will resonate with those who believe He could come today.