THURSDAY: WHEN JESUS COMES

May 18, 2023
2 min read

Luke 21:25-31

25 “There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea. 26 People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. 27 At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” 29 He told them this parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees. 30 When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. 31 Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.

Jesus continues His prophecy about end times. He says that there will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. Entire nations will be in anguish as their existence is threatened by the roaring and tossing of the sea.

Additionally, heavenly bodies will be shaken, likely causing the disturbance in the weather patterns on earth. People will be so apprehensive that some will faint from the terror of these events.

Jesus then announces that when these things occur, the Son of Man will come in a cloud with power and great glory.

THINK ABOUT THESE THINGS: Think about it. I don’t have to be concerned about thinking I’m going to miss Jesus when He comes. With such a grand announcement, the entire planet will be on alert. And with such a magnificent entrance, all those on the earth at that time will bear witness to His coming.

Jesus used a parable to tell us that when these things happen, the kingdom of God is near. Jesus said that He will appear with power and great glory. The power He has to shake heavenly bodies is significant, but it still doesn’t compare with what He is about to do.

Jesus gives specific instructions: When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. His intentions are clear: Jesus states that His purpose is to redeem us. Therefore, when I see these signs happening, I am to stand up and lift my head. Like one who looks to the sky to see my Savior, I am to stand ready and prepared for Him as He comes to claim those who are His.

Lord, allow me to be ready and prepared to do the things You ask of me.

May you be blessed,

Chaplain Wayne Ruckman