As I reflect and write today, I muse that Advent is just around the corner. It strikes me that this is the perfect text for what Advent does for us today. It’s like God just “winked” at us with such profound words. We look to the skies and await Jesus’ return. Here, Jesus is telling us what to expect if we’re still here to witness it.
There’s that fig tree again! But now, we see an even deeper meaning in Jesus’ example just a few verses ago. Jesus saw the signs and knew what to expect of the tree. Jesus has explained the signs we can expect to see when his coming is near. But the fig tree didn’t produce fruit in time for Jesus, and sometimes the signs we see about his coming are just the beginning; the best (fruit) is yet to come. The difference ends in that I’m not going to curse the fact that I haven’t seen Jesus yet.
Jesus uses the word meaning “soon.” It is good for us to remember that God’s timing isn’t something we can comprehend. What does “very near” mean? We’re not supposed to know, according to Jesus. Yet, many people remain curious and want to try to make their own predictions. It’s a slippery slope I try to avoid, but rather just invite Jesus to return “soon.”
I’ve always wrestled with this line in the text. “I tell you the truth, this generation will not pass from the scene before all these things take place.” I was so happy for the footnote in my translation for “this generation.” The people living in the generation who met Jesus in person have all passed away. If that’s true, then all these things have already happened; and they haven’t.
Understanding generation to mean the “age or nation” makes a lot more sense. Our civilization still exists, so our “age” is intact, and the “nation” of God, Christ’s followers and Israel, is comprised of those belonging to God. And we’re all here and accounted for. So long as the kingdom on earth remains, we can expect Jesus to return.
It’s up to us to keep our “generation” of believers alive by sharing our faith with others. It’s not the most popular time to be a Christian, especially in some parts of the world. I feel a bit closer to the Jews who have endured such pain and heartache for many years due to hatred. Yet, I believe both Jews and Christians belong to God and are the “generation” waiting for a Savior.
During Advent, churches use the four-week season to prepare for Jesus’ coming, ultimately on Christmas Day. But Christians also look forward to the second coming and acknowledge that we are anxiously waiting for that day. We celebrate the first and second comings this time of year, even though one has yet to take place. How nicely Jesus’ words fit for the Advent season!
Jesus wants us to be ready. For several thousand years, people have been getting ready to see Jesus again. His cautioning words should inspire us to action. “Don’t let him find you sleeping when he arrives without warning.” We can’t be lazy Christians. We need to be actively pursuing our relationship with Jesus. When we’re doing that, it’s harder to get off track and “fall asleep.”
Think about this today: Is there something you would like to change about your quiet time with God? If you want more time in your day for God or to go deeper, pray for the right opportunities.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, you are welcome in my life, and I treasure my relationship with you. I want to get to know you more, and texts like this are so helpful. You want us to be ready for you. You’ve told us what to be prepared for. Thank you for calling me your child. I look forward to the day we meet face to face. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
