Luke 21:25-36 (NRSV)
Read Luke 21:25-36 on biblegateway.com
Verse 25"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. Verse 26People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Verse 27Then they will see 'the Son of Man coming in a cloud' with power and great glory. Verse 28Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."
Verse 29Then he told them a parable: "Look at the fig tree and all the trees; Verse 30as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. Verse 31So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Verse 32Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. Verse 33Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. Verse 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, Verse 35like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. Verse 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."
Devotion
“Get ready!” “Get ready!” The Concordia College Christmas Concert began its program one year with this anthem. It’s the Advent theme. The Son of Man is coming!
The world becomes pretty scary sometimes. There is no place to hide from all its calamities – except to find refuge in the Lord who created heaven and earth. He is still the Lord of the Universe. We understand that when the grass turns green in the spring, and the first leaves appear on the bushes and trees, that spring and summer are not far behind. The universe may be in distress, but the Lord’s promise of redemption is sure.
So we take heart. It’s not all as bad as it sometimes seems. The Lord is coming to rescue his people. He gives us strength so we can stand before him on the great day when he fulfills his promise to gather us with him to the Father.
Prayer
Gracious God, help us to be ready for the coming of your Son to judge the living and the dead. Keep us always safe in your love, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.