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Luke 21 English Standard Version (ESV)

 

The Coming of the Son of Man

²⁵ “And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the sea and the waves, ²⁶ people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. ²⁷ And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. ²⁸ Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

The Lesson of the Fig Tree

²⁹ And he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. ³⁰ As soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. ³¹ So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. ³² Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place.³³ Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

Watch Yourselves

³⁴ “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap. ³⁵ For it will come upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth.³⁶ But stay awake at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”

³⁷ And every day he was teaching in the temple, but at night he went out and lodged on the mount called Olivet. ³⁸ And early in the morning all the people came to him in the temple to hear him.

 

REFLECTION:

1. Jesus mentioned a list of persecutions and disasters that were to Then he said, “straighten up andraise your heads” because it means that Messiah is coming back soon.  He will rule the earth with righteousness and peace.
2. Jesus also told His disciples to be alert to wait for His coming back. Though it’s been 2,000 years, it’s still true, He is coming soon.  We need to be prepared to welcome Him, to obey His commands faithfully, and not get lost in drinking, eating and entertainment.  Nor should we be crushed under the heavy weight of worries for our lives.
3. What do the countless wars, diseases, disasters in recent years have to do with Jesus’ words in this passage? Are you waiting for Christ’s return with hope and anticipation?  Or are you afraid of what’s happening in the world?  If you truly believe that Christ is coming back soon, what does this fact change your daily life?

 

PRAYER:

“God, please help me to “stay awake at all times” in preparation for your return.”