Our scripture this morning is Luke 21:5-15.
Some of his disciples began talking about the majestic stonework of the Temple and the memorial decorations on the walls. But Jesus said, “The time is coming when all these things will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another!” “Teacher,” they asked, “when will all this happen? What sign will show us that these things are about to take place?” He replied, “Don’t let anyone mislead you, for many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and saying, ‘The time has come!’ But don’t believe them. And when you hear of wars and insurrections, don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place first, but the end won’t follow immediately.” Then he added, “Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, and there will be famines and plagues in many lands, and there will be terrifying things and great miraculous signs from heaven. “But before all this occurs, there will be a time of great persecution. You will be dragged into synagogues and prisons, and you will stand trial before kings and governors because you are my followers. But this will be your opportunity to tell them about me. So don’t worry in advance about how to answer the charges against you, for I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refute you!”
While the disciples talk of how beautiful the temple is, Jesus uses the opportunity to speak about the future. He reminds them that no human thing will endure forever and there will be cataclysm and disaster on the Day of the Lord. They ask about what signs will occur that they may know the time has come.
Jesus says that there will be news of awful things and people who will attempt to mislead them before that time. He warns of the persecution His followers will face. However, He says we are to continue in the work He has left to us, proclaiming His name to the world.
He adds that through all this He will be with us, saying “I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refute you” (v. 15). Our faith and trust in Jesus will see us through the difficulties we will face. The one true Messiah will come to take us to the home He has prepared for us.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You sent Your son to save us. Help us to see His face in all our brothers and sisters, and help us to be His face to those in need. Amen.