"There will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth dismay among nations, in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, men fainting from fear and the expectation of the things which are coming upon the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken" Luke 21:25-26.
Jesus’ words have an increasing sense of realism as modern-day events unfold. One crisis and disaster seems to blend with the next; so much so that we lose sight of what previously was a disaster that would take months and even years to recover from. All too often we hear the word, “unprecedented,” to describe a current disaster.
It is tempting to read current events into Jesus prophetic words, which nearly every generation has done over the past two millennia. What we view as specific events heralding the near return of Jesus may, in reality, be general signs of this present age. This much we do know: we must not let the weight of today’s calamities deter or detract us from a focus on the true reality to come. "Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth" (Luke 21:34-35).
The prophecies in scripture call us to an intentional lifestyle. In light of what is revealed of the future, we guard against activities and involvement that diminish our spiritual direction and dynamic. Rather than seeking escape through the pleasures of this age, we live vigilant and purposeful lives. We deliberately plan for and anticipate God's direct intervention in the world.
The hope of believers of every age is to be the final generation that witnesses the dawn of the kingdom of God. The uncertainty of life, however, adds even greater urgency to the call to prepare. For all we know this day may be the day before the dawn of the kingdom, whether from our personal mortal perspective, or from the reality of realized Bible prophecy. This moment is precious from the perspective of eternity.
©Steve Taylor, 2023 --Used by permission
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