If you are watching the news this week, you are aware of the new war that has broken out between Israel and Iran. You are also aware of the upsurge in attacks against Ukraine, violence and murder against politicians, murder taking place in our own county, and disasters in various places around the world. It is tempting to despair, to flee to our own shelters, or to ignore the outside world.
What is a Christian to do in this time? How then now shall we live?
Jesus addressed that very question in Luke 21. As I understand His message, He warned of troubling times ahead. Wars and rumors of wars, pestilence, famine, plagues, persecution, terrors and signs in the heavens. All these, Jesus said, would come. So how are we to respond?
First, be solid in your faith. “But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:28)
Second, Be prepared to give an answer to those that question you.“It will lead to an opportunity for your testimony. (Luke 21:13)
Third, guard your heart! “Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth. (Luke 21:34–35)
Finally, be a person of prayer. “But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:36)
This world is not our home! Live like a citizen of heaven!
Pastor John
