Monday: SIGNS OF THE TIME

May 15, 2023
2 min read

Luke 21:5-9

5 Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, 6 “As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down.” 7 “Teacher,” they asked, “when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place?” 8 He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them. 9 When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.”

When Solomon built the temple, it was a magnificent structure. It was adorned with beautiful stones to honor the Most High God. The disciples were impressed with its beauty, and with worship of God within it through gifts dedicated to God. Jesus must have left them feeling uneasy, though, as He prophesied about a time when not one stone will be left on another.

The disciples were curious about the timing of these future events. Jesus had more to tell them about when the timing was not, though.

Jesus remarks that that many will come in His name, declaring to be Him and that the time is near. He is direct with the disciples: do not follow them.

Jesus states that wars and uprisings will also occur before this time; these are only signs that the end is coming, but even still, the end will not come right away.

THINK ABOUT THESE THINGS: It’s pretty incredible to think about all the people who have prophesied the end of time, and all of those who have claimed to be Jesus. It’s just as incredible to think about all the people who have been deceived by these false prophets, even though they have had the truth of God’s Word.

I’ll have to admit, when wars and uprisings occur, I do get a little anxious. I realize that these are only signs of the times, but with each passing day it becomes more evident that these particular wars and uprisings may actually be those of which Jesus spoke.

Jesus told us not to be afraid of these wars. Unfortunately, fear strikes a little close to home when I hear of people I know going to fight in these same wars.

Lord, please guide and direct my heart not to fear. I desire to listen to You so that I can be watchful for when You come again.

May you be blessed,

Chaplain Wayne Ruckman