When I was little, I did not enjoy reading about the signs of the end times. Imagining the wars, natural disasters, and persecutions that I might have to face filled me with dread and fear. 

But taking a step away from any fears, it is important to reflect: why did Jesus choose to tell us of these signs?

It is out of His mercy for us. He gives us signs to remind us that the judgement day is coming (Luke 21:31), and since we have the prior knowledge, we can start preparing ourselves to face those difficult times (Luke 21:34).

So what are some of the ways we can prepare ourselves?

Take Heed Not to be Deceived

In the last days, there will arise false teachers who claim to be the Christ and they will eventually deceive many (Luke 21:8, Matt 24:5). 

In order for us to stand firm in the truth without getting deceived by false doctrines, the Bible tells us that we need to have a mature faith (Eph 4:14). A mature faith is one that is not only skilled in the word of righteousness, but is also able to discern both good and evil to the point where they are able to teach others with the word (Heb 5:13-14). 

On the contrary, one that is not yet mature would not have a full grasp of foundational teachings such as the doctrines and the commandments (Heb 6:1-2).

Do Not Be Terrified

In the face of the wars, pestilences, and persecution, naturally we would be terrified. 

But we can find courage in knowing that although we might undergo pain and suffering for Christ’ name sake, God is still watching over us. Unless He wills it, we will not lose even a single strand of hair (Luke 21:18, Matt 10:30). 

Moreover, even in moments where we are questioned by our enemies, God is with us, and He will guide us to speak with wisdom (Luke 21:15).

At the same time, we can find courage in counting ourselves worthy of facing persecution to bear testimony for Christ’s sake (Luke 21:12). The persecution we face is not meaningless pain and suffering. Instead, it can be a testimony to non-believers of Christ, and an encouragement to believers to be bold in speaking God’s word (Phil 1:13-14).

Watch and Pray

Jesus warns us that in the last days, there is a snare that all will face: that hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares (Luke 21:34-35). 

This snare is essentially meant to distract us from preparing for the coming judgement day. It can form a vicious cycle of being bogged down by day to day struggles of life on earth then turning to the pleasures of the world to ease our suffering.

Thus, Jesus’ final warning to us is to watch and pray.

Watching requires us to be in a state of vigilance. Ready to move and respond quickly at any moment. For us to respond quickly, we cannot be weighed down by carousing and cares, nor can we be drunk. 

Lastly, we must pray. What is it that we should pray for? Often our prayers are filled with requests regarding our life on earth. For good grades, for a better job, for good health. But how often do we pray as Jesus tells us to: that we might be counted worthy to escape all these things and that we can stand before the Son of Man (Luke 21:36)

Two Mites

As a conclusion, let’s look at the widow with two mites (Luke 21:1-4).

Jesus describes her as someone who “out of her poverty put in all the livelihood that she had [for God].” (Luke 21:4).

The widow was someone who had so little, yet she was willing to give up even the little bit she had in this life for God. Putting ourselves in her shoes, giving up these two mites possibly meant having to starve for the next few days. Yet, despite knowing the pain she would have to face, the widow still chose to give up her all for God.

Likewise for us today, the signs of the end times may bring about suffering and pain. But let us learn from the poor widow and be willing to give up all that we have for Christ’s sake, even if it means having to face some pain and suffering in this lifetime.

Reflection Questions:

• Am I mature in faith such that I can discern false teachings from the truth?

• When I face difficult situations, do I trust in God’s protection and care or am I lacking faith in Him?

• What are some carousing, drunkenness, and cares that are weighing me down today?

• How can I be more willing to face difficulties and suffer for Christ?