11/12/19

Our scripture this week is Luke 21:5-19

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. When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.” Then he said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.
Luke 21:8-11

Jesus tells us some frightening things about the end times. One of the most concerning is the coming of false prophets, those who would lead us astray. Jesus warns us that things will seem to be falling apart, but we must put our trust in Him and no one else.

Thinking about terrible things such as this can lead to panic and despair. Jesus tells us things will be this way so we will not lose hope. He also taught us that anyone who claims to know the time is wrong, because only God will decide when this occurs.

Perhaps Jesus is telling us to focus on the here and now, on what we know to be true and what we are called to do. When we worry about the future, we only make ourselves afraid and we miss the opportunity to do good in the present time. God is in control and we can take comfort in knowing we are fulfilling His purpose through love and care for one another right now.

Gracious God, You have set creation in motion according to Your will, and things will occur as You command. Help us to let go of our want to control things and follow the plan You have for all of us. Amen.

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