THEN LOOK UP!

THEN LOOK UP!

Luke 21:25-28

25 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;

26 Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.

27 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.

28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.

           Jesus had just told the disciples that their magnificent Temple would one day fall. They couldn’t believe it – indeed couldn’t imagine it. They asked when would these things be and, as they thought, the end of the world. Jesus answered by describing what I believe to be our current condition.

           The word “distress” in verse 25 is sunoche and means anxiety. The word “perplexity” is aporia and means “a state of quandary.” Certainly our time sees enough of both and, if that were not enough, we have also witnessed the sea waves roaring.

           Jesus then gives His disciples and us some good advice. When you see these things BEGIN to come to pass then look up! I think our souls are overwhelmed with anxiety when we fail to look up. It is a matter of focus! We can’t stop the brightness of the sun from hurting our eyes but we don’t have to stare at it!

John 14:27

27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Dear Lord, the world offers me no peace. Thank you for the peace that passes understanding. AMEN