Scripture Reference: Luke 21:28
“When these things begin to happen, stand up and raise your heads because your salvation is near.”
Introduction: A Time for Readiness
Jesus spoke these words to His disciples as a reminder that the events unfolding in the world would signal His imminent return. These words were not just for them but for us today. As we observe the increasing intensity of global events, we must recognize them as warnings and encouragements to prepare for His coming.
Imagine you’re at an airport, dressed nicely for the trip, and waiting for your flight. You keep your eyes on the departure board, checking the details and making sure your gate number and boarding time are correct. Every few minutes, an announcement comes through the speakers, and passengers listen carefully, ensuring they don’t miss their call. Some are seated but alert, others are standing, ready to move as soon as the final boarding is announced.
This is the posture Jesus calls us to have as we await His return. He told His disciples,
“When these things begin to happen, stand up and raise your heads because your salvation is near” (Luke 21:28).
Just like passengers waiting for their flight, we must be spiritually attentive, prepared, ready, and expectant. The signs around us—the turbulence of the world, the shifting events—are like the announcements in an airport, reminding us that the departure is close.
Believers are called to stand up and be watchful, standing firm in faith, dressed in garments of righteousness, checking our hearts, and aligning our lives with God’s Word.
Any time soon, the final call will come—the Lord’s voice will sound, and His Church will be caught up to meet Him in the air.
“There will be a shout of command, the archangel’s voice, the sound of God’s trumpet, and the Lord himself will come down from Heaven. Those who have died believing in Christ will rise to life first. Then we who are living at that time will be gathered up with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air” (1 Thes 4: 16 – 17)
1. Signs of the Times: The Fulfillment of Prophecy
Jesus outlined specific events that would occur before His return. In Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21, He described signs that would precede the end. Today, we see these prophecies being fulfilled right before our eyes:
- Wars and Rumors of Wars – Conflicts rage across nations. From geopolitical tensions to civil wars, the world is in turmoil. Nations are rising against each other, just as Jesus foretold (Matthew 24:6-7).
- Ethnic Clashes and Division – Jesus spoke of “nation against nation,” a term that also means “ethnos against ethnos” (ethnic group against ethnic group). Racial, tribal, and political divisions are increasing, fueling hatred and strife.
- Famine and Economic Hardship – Global food shortages, rising prices, and economic instability are worsening. The cost of living is skyrocketing, and many struggle to afford basic needs. The Bible warns of famines as a sign of the end (Luke 21:11).
- Earthquakes and Natural Disasters – From devastating earthquakes to hurricanes and floods, the earth is groaning. The frequency and intensity of these disasters are increasing, aligning with Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:7.
- Lawlessness and Moral Decay – Society is becoming increasingly godless. Corruption, violence, and immorality are celebrated rather than condemned. The apostle Paul warned in 2 Timothy 3:1-5 that in the last days, people would be lovers of themselves, without self-control, and despisers of what is good.
2. How Should We Respond?
In light of these signs, Jesus tells us to stand up and lift up our heads. This is not a time to fear but a time to remain steadfast in faith.
- Stay Spiritually Awake – Many are spiritually asleep, distracted by worldly pleasures and concerns. Jesus warns us to be vigilant, keeping our lamps burning (Luke 12:35-40).
- Live a Life of Holiness – Now more than ever, we must turn away from sin and pursue righteousness. In 2 Peter 3:11-12, we are reminded that since everything will be destroyed, we should live holy and godly lives.
- Share the Gospel Urgently – The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) is more pressing than ever. Many still do not know Christ, and as the end approaches, we must be bold in spreading His Word.
- Do Not Fear, but Trust in God – Jesus told us these things not to cause panic but to assure us that He is in control. As Psalm 46:1 reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
3. Encouragement for Every Area of Life
These signs impact people in many different ways, and God’s Word offers guidance for all:
- For Families: Teach children the truth about Jesus and the times we live in. Raise them in faith, not fear (Proverbs 22:6).
- For the Workplace: Be a light amid corruption. Stand firm in integrity and faith (Colossians 3:23-24).
- For Communities: Serve and encourage one another. Love and unity will be a testimony of Christ (John 13:34-35).
- For Leaders and Nations: Seek wisdom and justice. Governments must turn to God, for righteousness exalts a nation (Proverbs 14:34).
Conclusion: Look Up, Your Salvation is Near!
The signs of the end are clear, but Jesus’ message is one of hope, not despair. If we remain faithful, we have nothing to fear. If we are living in sin, we must repent and believe in Jesus. Christ’s return is not doom for believers but the fulfillment of our blessed hope (Titus 2:13).
Let us stand up, lift up our heads, and remain steadfast in faith, for our redemption draws near!
Christ is Coming. Are you ready?
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, open our eyes to see the times we are living in. If we remain in sin, convict us to repent, believe, and accept Jesus as our Savior. Strengthen our faith and help us to live in readiness for Christ’s return. May we not be overcome by fear but be filled with Your Spirit, standing as faithful witnesses in this generation.
In Jesus’ name, Amen!