Reflecting on Luke 21:20-28“When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:28)
Jesus conflates the destruction of Jerusalem with the day of His final return.
Many of the first disciples were likely expecting Jesus in their lifetime.
Similarly, many times in history have felt like the end, when Jesus would come.
I don’t see Jesus as offering a timeline for His return.
“Not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son” (Matthew 24:36) knows the day.
I see Jesus preparing His followers to not despair when things get bad.
No matter how evil or apocalyptic the days will be, Jesus will triumph.
Jesus is on the throne, and God’s gracious love will overcome.
The Son of Man (see Daniel 7:1-14) will win over the beastly empires.
In the midst of global chaos and upheaval, stand up and lift up your heads!
Keep looking up, when everything around you is crashing down.
You may day, or you may survive, but your redemption is near.
The first disciples died, yet they are now with Jesus in glory.
Darkness may last through the night, but joy will come in the morning!
Stand firm in Jesus and the Jesus Way; with Jesus will rise on the other side!
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, Your Way seems weak and foolish, leading only to suffering and death. The powers of this world seem unstoppable... yet one day we will see Your Way overcome. Help me to stand up and look up, when everything around me is trying to bring me down!