Luke 21:25-36"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. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see 'the Son of Man coming in a cloud' with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."
Then he told them a parable: "Look at the fig tree and all the trees; as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
"Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day catch you unexpectedly, like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man."
What are you watching? Are you watching for signs in the sky among the stars? Are you watching for signs of confusion among the nations? Are you watching for signs of fear among the powerful? Perhaps you have been watching the trees and the falling leaves as a sign of the changing of the seasons and a reminder that God is near.
Jesus reminds us to be on our guard and to stay alert at all times. Pray for strength to be faithful and to be all that God has created you to be.
Watch is the first word of Advent. There is much to watch in this special season of the year.
- There will be special, seasonal TV shows to watch.
- There will be shopping ads to watch for bargains in our gift-giving.
- There will be holiday decorations to watch as we drive down residential streets.
- There will be Christmas program and musicals to watch school, church, and community.
- There will be weather reports to watch closely as we make our travel plans.
- But in the midst of the Advent Season, be alert and watch for signs of God's presence.
