Words We Need to Hear

No one anticipated the brutal attack on Israel by Hamas. How did they break through Israel’s high tech security measures? I listen to the news for short periods of time. It is almost too much to take in.

Yet, I am reminded that Jesus spoke about events that we should be alert to notice. He was speaking to his disciples as recorded in Matthew 24.

As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying “Tell us when these things will be, and what will be the sign of your coming and the end of the age?” 

And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying I am the Christ, and they will lead many astray. And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are but the beginning of birth pains. 

Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and put you to death, and you [Israel] will be hated by all nations for my name’s sake. 

And then many will fall away and betray one another and hate one another. And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. And because lawlessness is increased, the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. Matthew 24: 3-14 

Jesus wants to make us aware of very troubling times. He is preparing us to remain steadfast in our faith. It is a time to share the gospel with people that are in our circle of influence, a time to pray for friends and family. And a time to pray for Israel.

The picture leading this post is a view of the Temple Mount from the Mount of Olives.

Linking this post with the Five Minute Friday writing community and Inspire Me Monday and also Sweet Tea and Friends.