Thursday 2 January, 2020

5 Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, 6 “As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down.” 7 “Teacher,” they asked, “when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place?” 8 He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them. 9 When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.” 10 Then he said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven. 12 “But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. They will hand you over to synagogues and put you in prison, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name. 13 And so you will bear testimony to me. 14 But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. 15 For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. 16 You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. 17 Everyone will hate you because of me. 18 But not a hair of your head will perish. 19 Stand firm, and you will win life.

This passage depicts a time to come, a time of war and destruction when people turn against one another, but I think it has wise instructions for us now as well as in that time to come. 

3 instructions that stick out to me in this passage are:

1. Do not be misled, know who Jesus is. If we are not to be misled we must know who Jesus is and what he is like. We must know what the bible has to say about him.

• Do not be afraid but trust in God. He continues later in the passage to assure their protection should they stand firm. The bible clearly warns that persecution for following Jesus happens. It has, it is and it will happen. But we are not to fear man but to fear God.

 3. Listen to Him and do not depend on your own understanding.

Jesus was asked to defend his statements, actions and beliefs many times. His answers are often puzzling. They are not your typical defences. Jesus has the words and the wisdom we need. We need to ask him for help and listen to him.

Jesus Thankyou for the Bible. Thankyou that we can know who you are and what you are like. Thankyou for your Holy Spirit in us who helps us to discern. May we know you more and not be misled by false teachings or values. Help us not to be afraid but to trust in you each day. May we know, without any doubt, that you are true and faithful. Help us to listen to you and come to you for wisdom and the right words especially when we face adversity. Thankyou that you are our provider, defender, and our Lord. Amen

Written by Ps. Zoe Stewart