He told them this parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.” Luke 21:29-31
On my bike rides I have been noticing that there are more leaves on the ground than usual. “Why?” I wondered. Then I realized that it is the end of August, which means the fall is near. Time seems to have flown by this year. Even with all the disruptions of a pandemic and racial unrest, the seasons still change and the signs of their coming and going march on.
It reminds me that I need to be more attentive to the signs of things to come that God still puts in my path even when I am encountering earthly upheavals in my life. He puts Bible verses in front of me to keep me aware of my coming days. “There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off,” Proverbs 23:18 tells me. He warms my face with the sun to give me the hint, that it is the Son of God who warms my heart every day.
Keep your eyes open for the messages Christ is sending you as more leaves fall, more trees turn colors and the wilds blow more and more. There is glory yet to be revealed and our lives will change forever when the Last Day comes and Jesus returns. There is no stopping his arrival, just as there is no stopping the changing of the season. Keep watch.
