Tuesday 25 September, 2012

29 He told them this parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees. 30 When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. 31 Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32 “Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

Jesus gave us a simple analogy and the disciples understood this; when they look at a fig tree and saw leaves, they knew that summer was almost near. When you see these things happening, you know that the coming of the Kingdom is near. Every generation since Jesus has been faced with the reality of signs pointing to the end of the age. The generation that sees all the signs, will then know that Jesus Christ is near.

Jesus talks about two things to prepare ourselves for – tribulation and His second coming. We have seen a lot of tribulation in our generation alone; Jesus used the fig tree to teach his disciples an important lesson. The fig tree bore fruit twice a year, in autumn and early spring. Jesus told them to look for the signs of spring, and so are the signs of God’s Kingdom. Let’s pray that our hearts are open to His word, even though we do not know when He will return. He gives us signs to wake us up and to ignite our spirits to see His Kingdom come. Jesus is really emphasising this truth, He wants us to eagerly anticipate His return, and to seek His Kingdom in everything that we do.

God keeps His promises, they are faithful, and this means that I will always have hope in my heart, never forget His word, or stray from His ways. He wants me to always remember I am saved by the living and everlasting Word, His word will not fail in my salvation, and I will be bought to glory by that same Word. Thank you God for Your truth, in this I have hope, thank you that you called me, help me to incorporate your word and promises in my daily life.

Written by Cathy Croft