Luke 21:25-26,28,31,34,36 AMPC
And there will be signs in the sun and moon and stars; and upon the earth [there will be] distress (trouble and anguish) of nations in bewilderment and perplexity [without resources, left wanting, embarrassed, in doubt, not knowing which way to turn] at the roaring ( the echo) of the tossing of the sea, [26] Men swooning away or expiring with fear and dread and apprehension and expectation of the things that are coming on the world; for the [very] powers of the heavens will be shaken and caused to totter. [28] Now when these things begin to occur, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption (deliverance) is drawing near. [31] Even so, when you see these things taking place, understand and know that the kingdom of God is at hand. [34] But take heed to yourselves and be on your guard, lest your hearts be overburdened and depressed (weighed down) with the giddiness and headache and nausea of self-indulgence, drunkenness, and worldly worries and cares pertaining to [the business of] this life, and [lest] that day come upon you suddenly like a trap or a noose; [36] Keep awake then and watch at all times [be discreet, attentive, and ready], praying that you may have the full strength and ability and be accounted worthy to escape all these things [taken together] that will take place, and to stand in the presence of the Son of Man.
Reading what Jesus tells about the last days is like listening to the news.
Everyday some new disaster, volcano eruption, threat of war, COVID variant is thrust upon us.
Governments are in a quandary, not knowing what to do, hearts are weary with the problems of everyday life.
In the midst of all this Jesus' warning to us is: "be ready" at any time.
He talks of praying to be strong enough to escape what's coming - to be counted worthy to stand in His Presence!
I don't know about you, but I never feel worthy of that privilege and, in our own right, we aren't.
There's a clue about what counts for worthiness though:
Romans 4:3,5 AMPC
For what does the Scripture say? Abraham believed in (trusted in) God, and it was credited to his account as righteousness (right living and right standing with God). [5] But to one who, not working [by the Law], trusts (believes fully) in Him Who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited to him as righteousness (the standing acceptable to God).
So believing what Jesus says, taking it to heart and living by it, that is credited to us as "worthiness".
Question to ask ourselves:
How seriously do I take Jesus' command to be ready? Do I believe in His actual physical return? Am I ready?
I am the worst packer in the world when it comes to going away. My nearest and dearest always chides me for leaving everything 'til the last minute. There he is, packed and ready and I'm still backing up my data and doing some last minute work!
God forbid that I should be like that awaiting Jesus' return! I want to be ready, able to escape what's coming on the earth and be with Him.
Selah.
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