“So, you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near.”
Luke 21:31, NKJV
Imagine being isolated on a deserted island with no watch to tell time, no smartphone (heaven forbid!), and nothing but nature to guide you. The sun, moon, stars, and tides of the ocean would, in fact, lend much information to help you navigate the situation. Okay, you may come off “the island” now. You may also have your watch and smartphone back. (Whew!)
In the introductory Scripture verse written by Luke, Jesus was talking to His disciples about “The signs of the times and the end of the age.” No man-made twenty-first century smart device can predict what God alone knows, but Jesus said, long before technology was even a word, that there will be visible and tangible signs—signs of which all people should take note. “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom…” changes in the weather patterns, “great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences: and there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven” (Luke 21:10-11).
The month of April is the beginning of spring; how do we know this? Signs, like the budding of trees and flowers, new life sprouting up all around us. Even on the proverbial deserted island without any technology, one would recognize “changes” taking place, compliments of God. So, Jesus warned His followers then, and He warns us today, not to be caught off guard, rather, know the “signs” of His imminent return. Friend, I pray with intention, that you will open your Bible and read God’s manifest regarding His categorical plans for planet Earth, because they deeply concern you and me. Whether Jesus comes back today or not for another thousand years, you and I must be ready. Be motivated, not by fear and anxiety, but with awe and expectation in seeing Jesus, face to face.
Come Lord Jesus, come!
For deeper understanding, read Luke 21.
Friend, if you do not know Jesus Christ as your LORD and Savior, today, invite Him into your heart. Jesus will not force His way into your life; you must “open [that] door” to let Him in. God loves you beyond your wildest imagination, but you will never know just how much until you make the decision to give Him access. God is waiting, and He is faithful!