FEB 2

Luke 24:13-32
Memorise Matthew 24:34
“…this generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled”

There are many instances in the Bible where prophecies made hundreds of years in the past were fulfilled to the letter. Many of these involve Christ’s birth, life, death and resurrection. His first coming was revealed in Genesis 3:15 when God said that He would send a Saviour to the world to destroy the works of Satan and defeat death on behalf of those who look to Him in faith. Later, the prophet Micah pinpointed Bethlehem as Jesus’ birthplace (Micah 5:2) and the prophet Isaiah predicted correctly that a son would be born who is also God (Isaiah 9:6). Jesus, who was born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14) entered Jerusalem on the back of a donkey (Zechariah 9:9), was betrayed by Judas (Psalm 41:9) for 30 pieces of silver (Zechariah 11:12-13) and had His hands and feet pierced during His crucifixion (Zechariah 12:10). Jesus even foretold His burial in a rich man’s tomb (Isaiah 53:9) and His own resurrection on the third day after His death (Matthew 20:19). These are probably but some of the many passages that Jesus expounded to the two disciples who were on the road to Emmaus, showing them all the prophecies of the life and death of Christ.

Today, we know that Jesus is coming again very soon as foretold in His parable of the fig tree in Matthew 24:32-36. The fig tree represents the nation of Israel. Because of Israel’s rejection of Jesus, God cursed Jerusalem by having it destroyed and dispersing the Jews. This is symbolized by the fig tree which Jesus had earlier cursed and caused to wither because it was unfruitful. However, Jesus again referred to the very same fig tree and said that when it starts to show signs of life (sprout leaves), the time of His return would be very near.

History tells us that the nation of Israel was declared independent on May 14th 1948, hence fulfilling the fig tree prophecy. Its leaves have begun to sprout, and we know therefore that Jesus’ return is drawing near. We do not know exactly when our Lord will return, but we are to be watchfully anticipating His return at any moment. Let us continue to be busy with His work lest He finds us in a state of spiritual slumber upon His return.

Thought: Jesus may return at any moment now, perhaps even before I am done reading this sentence!
Prayer: O Lord, surely You come quickly. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!