Intro: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work” (2 Tim 3:16-17). That means every word in Scripture we read has a spiritual meaning that is to “activate” something within us. God’s Word is active and purposeful to protect us, as well as move us forward in His plan for redemption (Heb 4:12).
Let’s keep those two Scriptures in mind as we come to our main passage for today. Dr. Luke wants us to listen to the warning of Christ who is telling his disciples what to expect about His return; calamities will shake the earth (Luke 21:25-26). Jesus wants his followers to be spiritually prepared for action, so if he lists certain things it is because those things cause people to be unprepared or too weighed down to take the proper action. The trials of life ahead may be so difficult that if we are not spiritually fit, we will not discern them accurately nor will we handle them righteously.
It is to our advantage that we see life from God’s perspective; to allow the Light of God’s Word to lead our way. If God’s kids are more interested in the sensual pleasures of the world, we will not be able to properly observe the signs God brings that the Kingdom is drawing near. If you and I are worried about worldly challenges, we will not focus on the one thing that is essential; to sit at the feet of Jesus and receive from him the love, peace, and wisdom found in His care. We must pay attention to our spiritual lives, because a healthy spirit will be focused on all the ways we can love other believers the way Christ loves us (John 13:34).
Luke 21:34-36 34 “Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware, 35 like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth. 36 Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man.”
Prayer: Lord, thank You for this passage today recorded by Dr. Luke. May we be waiting and watching for Your return each day. I pray for strength, Lord; help Your children escape the calamities of judgment by living in your righteous care. I pray for the people of Ukraine, Lord, they are suffering and being scattered; please raise Your children up in surrounding countries to welcome and care for them. Inspire within us, as a country, how to love them from a distance. In Jesus’ name. Amen.