Raise Your Heads, Your Redemption Is Drawing Near

Just days before his crucifixion, Jesus speaks to his disciples about an event within their lifetimes that will, in a starkly visible way, mark the end of the old age and the advancement of the new: the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in 70AD. Yet, he not only predicts it, but lovingly prepares them for it, enabling them to face it with a confidence that He will be with them as the risen, exalted King of Kings who rules the nations with an iron sceptre, and they will serve as his ambassadors. How should we respond when the world seems to be crashing down around us, and as believers we face increasing ostracisation and hostility? Where is our confidence and assurance when the nations rage and kingdoms clash, and we feel like mere 'collateral damage'? Jesus calls his disciples and us to an implicit trust in him as the Son of Man who rules all things, to his Father's glory.