SCRIPTURE: Mark (NIV) 13:28 “Now learn this lesson from the fig-tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. 29 Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that it is near, right at the door. 30 I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened.
OBSERVATION: Having been born the year Israel became a nation and believing that the fig-tree in verse 28 could be a reference to Israel, I consider myself a part of “this generation.” I believe the things mentioned in the previous verses will happen in my lifetime.
The theme of the next 5 verses is “be on guard,” “be alert,” “don’t be sleeping,” “watch!” This is not a day to be a sleepy Christian.
APPLICATION: In verse 37 Jesus says, “What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’” I must take that personally. I must not let myself be influenced by the world into thinking that everything will continue as it has. I must keep my ears open to what the Holy Spirit is saying. I must keep “on guard” and “alert!”
I need to get my news from the Bible even more than from newspapers, magazines, radio or television. The Holy Spirit is the author of the scriptures and He is able to give us understanding of how they apply to today.
Reality may be that I have less time than my generation. An accident, or some sickness may usher me into the presence of God before the call for “this generation.” I have no promise of tomorrow. (Proverbs 27:1) I must be ready today! I must live ready!
PRAYER: Lord, You have a plan and you have a time frame into which that plan must be finished. As we quickly approach the completion of your plan, keep me sharp in hearing your voice. Amen.
Pastor Leon
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