Jesus said, “The time will come when you will desire to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it.” (Luke 17:22). What did He mean? Does this mean that the disciples will not enter the kingdom of God? Does this mean that Jesus’ return will be silent, secretive, or private?
Well, in order to really understand these things, you need to understand the word “desire.” In the Greek Text, it is a strong word that indicates everything ranging from lust to passion to non-cognitive activity. However, we are sure Jesus is not speaking of anything sinful. And, we are sure that Jesus is not trying to commend these men for acting apart from sober-mindedness. Further, we are sure that Jesus is not reprimanding these men for the lack of ability to get their emotions under control.
What is probably the best understanding of this passage is the following: given the context of the persecution that will follow the ministries of these men, and given the reality that Jesus is headed towards the cross outside of Jerusalem (Luke 9:51; 17:11) after being betrayed by one of His disciples (Matthew 16:21; cf. Luke 9:22), we can say that Jesus is telling these men that they will be persecuted to such an extent that they will long for, passionately desire, cry out for, just one of the days of the Millennial Kingdom of the Messiah, wherein they will be refreshed.
Thus, Jesus is speaking in such a manner so as to be honest with these men and tell them what is in store for them. But, the sad news is they will not be able to see that day, or any of the days of the Millennial Kingdom, that they are panting after. They will have to endure the persecution ordained for them just like that which is ordained for their Master (Luke 17:25-37).
Also, for us as well, we must endure persecution. We are required to endure the slander, hatred, and animosity of all men until the Lord returns for us by means of the Rapture. After that, we wait for His own vindication by means of the Second Coming which will inaugurate the Millennial Kingdom.
Peter wrote about this very thing in his first inspired letter:
1 Peter 4:12–14 (NAS): 12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you;
13 but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.
14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
Sketches of Scripture 