"And there will be signs in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea and the waves roaring; men's hearts failing them from fear and the expectation of those things which are coming on the earth, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near.

Then He spoke to them a parable: "Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. When they are already budding, you see and know for yourselves that summer is now near. So you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all thingstake place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

The Lord was assuring His followers of that day and this one also that even as we watch the progress of the seasons through the natural process of nature, knowing certain step must be accomplished, so must we be alert to the signs of His return. Just as the fig tree begins to bud in preparation for the ripening of its fruit, so must we watch for the Son of Man to return in a cloud with power and great glory.

His return will not be as a thief in the night but in power and great glory. Until then we are to be faithful labors in His vineyard.

Readings:

Morning Psalm 80, Noon Psalm 119:97-104, Evening Psalm 31