The disciples asked Jesus …

Luke 21:7 When shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass?  

I find myself asking the same question as I consider the current state of the world. Especially in light of one statement that Jesus makes in answering their question … Distress of nations, with perplexity. 

Luke 21:25-26 And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; 26 Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. KJV

The Living Bible translates it: … down here on earth the nations will be in turmoil, perplexed by the roaring seas and strange tides. TLB 

I did some study and found that distress of nations is in reference to “covetousness,” which leads people to revolution, mutiny, and anarchy; the roaring seas (the nations). Truly we are surrounded by covetousness; the inordinate desire for wealth or possessions or the possessions of others. We see it in mob mentality here in America and around the world and we are all asking (wondering), who will be able to restrain the lawless mobs that take to the street.

The words of Jesus are a strong warning – “Men’s hearts failing them for fear … looking after those things which are coming on the earth.” It is reminiscent of a quote from Abraham Lincoln just before he was assassinated 157 years ago that was  truly prophetic … shining brightly on today.

I see in the near future a crisis approaching that unnerves me, and causes me to tremble for the safety of my country. Corporations have been enthroned, an era of competition in high places will follow, and the moving power of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until the wealth is aggregated in a few hands, and the Republic is destroyed. 

As Jesus’ bride, we have no excuse for being taken unaware when He speaks so plainly. History is fulfilling His word and we cannot take the position that it’s just “business as usual.” Quite the contrary … today it is “nothing as usual.” Yes, Jesus’ words are a strong warning, but praise God they come with hope … 28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. KJV

The world is in chaos and it is in America’s streets. Truly the moving power of the country will endeavor to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until the wealth is aggregated in a few hands, and the Republic is destroyed. 

It is time to look up and be about the business of The Kingdom because the coming of the King and judgement is at hand.