Nick was awake uncharacteristically early, determined to catch a glimpse of HMS Queen Elizabeth, the Royal Navy’s flagship aircraft carrier, which was rumoured to be heading our way. Although Navy ships don’t appear on Nick’s ship-tracking app, he had spotted a telling flurry of smaller ships approaching. So, despite the unsocial hour, we all headed into our loch-side garden to watch.
Sure enough, moments later, the Royal Navy’s largest and most powerful warship, with an entourage of other vessels, appeared and passed right by our house. An extraordinary sight! And one we would all have slept through if Nick hadn’t been alert and watching the signs.
When Jesus’ disciples asked about His return, He gave them signs to watch for. Increased natural and man-made disasters (Matthew 24:6-7) would be the beginning “birth-pains” (v. 8). An increase in persecution and deceptive doctrines (vv. 9-11) would make it harder to “stand firm” (v. 13). Yet all the while, the gospel would spread throughout the world ( v. 14).
When we witness and suffer the destructive things Jesus listed, we can be tempted to think the world is out of control. But it isn’t. Jesus’ words stir our hope. When we see these things, He says, we will know that He “is near, right at the door” (v. 33). Our world’s increasing chaos doesn’t undermine the plan of Christ. In fact, it confirms that He is coming soon.
By Debbi Fralick
REFLECT & PRAY
Are you noticing an increase in the signs Jesus pointed to in Matthew 24? How does His imminent return affect the way you view the chaos in the world around you?
Lord Jesus, I long for the day when You will come and bring lasting peace. Thank You that no matter how out-of-control the world appears, You have a plan that nothing can thwart.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT
Every generation of believers asks the same question as the disciples: When is Christ coming back? “Tell us, when will these things be?” (v. 3). Even after His resurrection they asked this (Acts 1:6). However, no one—not angels, not even Jesus—knows the day or the hour, but only the Father (Matt. 24:36; Mark 13:32; Acts 1:7). Jesus warned us against anyone who claims otherwise (Matt. 24:4).
Bill Crowder
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