By Regina Shands Stotlzfus, assistant professor of peace, justice and conflict studies
Scripture: Luke 21:25-36 (NRSV)
Jesus’ words sound so ominous in this passage. Did Jesus want us to be anxious and sick with worry as we scan the sky for messages in the heavenly bodies? Did he want us to read the headlines and assign catastrophic meaning to each world event as it unfolded? History has shown us that people have taken these words to hide themselves away from the world, or taken up arms to try and vanquish enemies – those who are not like “us.”
We do live in a time when the nations are in anguish. We indeed are perplexed. We long for a resolution to the many, many things that are troubling in this world. And I believe that Jesus speaks into the anguish and fear and uncertainty; not with a warning of coming terror, but as a way to remind us who we are: When you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Remember God is always with you. Do not be anxious but instead be at work doing the things that make for peace. In these days don’t hide yourself. In these days don’t run for cover. In these days shine forth with the love of the Creator of the universe and offer your hand to the ones who need it. Open your heart for those that need love. Stand in solidarity with those who are marginalized and abused. The kingdom of God is near, and you are a part of it.
Scripture: Luke 21:25-36 (NRSV)
“There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. 28Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
29Then he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees; 30as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. 31So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. 33Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 34“Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, 35like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. 36Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”