Luke 21:25-28 (NRSV)
Read Luke 21:25-28 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."
Devotion
“What is this world coming to?” is a rant we hear as the unthinkable is realized. News of unending war, terrorism and violence penetrate our daily lives, making it easy to connect with events that Jesus mentioned in today’s text. It would be easy to lose hope.
Jesus calls us to recall God’s promises at such times. Rather than being overcome with despair, Jesus speaks of trusting God’s sure and true promises. While evil is loose in the world, seeking to dash our sense of comfort and security, God is at work in the world bringing forth redemption.
As a mother of a newborn daughter, I wonder what life will be like for the young child with whom I have been entrusted. There is one thing about her future I know for certain through baptismal promises: By the death and resurrection of Christ, we are raised to new life!
Prayer
God whose reign is near, you are an ever-present help in danger, a strong foundation and shelter. Amid the chaos that seeks to destroy life, give hope of your redemptive reign among us. Amen.