PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Luke 21:29-33
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“When you see these things, you know that the kingdom of God is near.” (Luke 21:31)
I always enjoy seeing the leaves budding on the trees.
A sure sign that spring has come, and summer is on the way.
(In Canada, spring and summer is what I look forward too).
Jesus describes this anticipation, announced by the budding fig tree.
When we see trouble in the world, when we see nations in anguish and perplexity…
We know that God has restored Adam (Jesus) to the throne!
We know that God is restoring justice and mercy and peace and love!
We know that God is unraveling the power of Satan, sin, death and hell!
God is at work in the world through Jesus and his followers to set things right!
The creation itself knows it, and groans in anticipation (Romans 8:19-22).
The darkness fights with fury, because it knows its time is short (Revelation 12:12).
And we persevere, eager for the kingdom summer that follows kingdom spring!
So as we see the turmoil and groaning of life in this messed up world…
“Stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:28)
PRAYER
Lord, Satan wants us to see global turmoil and give up in despair. You are telling us these are the signs of your kingdom coming, to look up in hope! I choose to listen to you rather than Satan!
Lord thank you for your eternal promises. While our words will drift like dust in the breeze, we know your words will always remain. Thank you for being steadfast when we are unfaithful!
We are certainly observing a lot of things happening – with a lingering pandemic that has affected people in every continent, with the effects of global warming impacting so many people, with civil uprising and militant regimes and nationalistic spirit on the rise – yes leaves are sprouting – the time is nearer for Jesus to return. But I also know for myself, I’m just a missing heartbeat away from being transformed to that day. Lord, help me to continue to be busy in your kingdom – to be hopeful and pointing people to ‘living hope’ – to bear witness to the hope I have in you?!
Open our eyes Lord and let us see the sign of the times of Your coming again. In times like these I need You for the hope You gave in Your promises. With the downward look I get lost n despair but with my upward look I look forward to Your coming Kingdom in full as You have promised. That is my strength from day to day. Lead and guide always by Your Spirit so that I keep my eyes upon You.
O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.