Scripture: Luke 21:25-36 (NRSV)
DEVOTIONAL:
The sun burst forth again this morning!
It began with a glimmer of light. Then came the brightening of the sky and a coloring of the eastern clouds – followed by the dramatic rising of the familiar orb. Signs of its presence were all around: reflections in ponds and wetlands, golden light on tree trunks, sparkles on the frost, and a deepening blue in the sky.
Watching the development of the sunrise as I travel to work each morning is a favorite routine of mine. While all this is happening, I am reflecting on the many challenges and opportunities that are ahead in my day – projects to be developed, teaching assignments to be finalized and budgets to be balanced. There is also the awareness of large, global issues that haunt my mind. God uses the daily cycle of the sun to create a balance in my heart, mind and spirit as I review the impending list of activities and responsibilities.
I am grateful for Jesus’ teaching in today’s passage. It is encouraging to note how he references the cyclical aspects of nature as a way of helping us – his followers – to reflect on the heavy burdens of the present and fear of the future. Jesus does not name the issues of poverty, hunger, international conflicts or climate change, but at the same time I hear him identifying with the significance of issues found in all ages. In the perplexity of facing hard issues, Jesus speaks a clear word of hope. Christ is the Redeemer.
I commit myself again today to Jesus’ directives: “look,” “be on guard” and “be alert.” These form the basis for positive action. Jesus doesn’t call us to live in a state of denial, which can be tempting. Rather the Lord of Hope beckons us to be purveyors of “Good News.”
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.”