What's Happening in our World? Response

  It’s amazing how, in my life time, Jerusalem and the Middle East have been transformed from an obscure, insignificant [from the worldly standpoint] place; to what Joel Rosenburg calls the “Epicenter” of world attention and historical events. We see events depicted by Jesus, recorded in Luke 21, unfolding before our eyes. In that chapter He also warns and comforts us: “Don’t be deceived. Many will come in my name. Don’t follow them.” [8] “Do not be frightened” [9]. “Make up your minds not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves against those who call you before political or military rulers. You will be a witness to them. I will give you words of wisdom that they will not be able to contradict.” [12-15]. “Not a hair of your head will perish. By standing firm you will gain life.” [18-19] “When these things begin to take place, stand up, lift up your heads because your redemption is drawing near.” [28] “Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” [36]. Jesus was preparing them for the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. But He is also preparing us for whatever lies ahead for us.
Some practical things we can do: 1. Pray and abide in Christ. Abide in Him! Jesus is like the ark in the days of Noah. Get on board and stay on board.The storm clouds are already gathering.  Don’t be like those whose “hearts [were] weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life” [v.34]. 2. Support missionaries and those who have been called to win converts in the darkest places on earth. [see Voice of the Martyrs] Every Muslim convert becomes your brother, and heaven rejoices with all converts. 3. Live and propagate the Christian faith. Christ is the only hope. We see clearly that this battle will not be won militarily or politically; only spiritually. Ask politicians to make sure America continues to support Israel [see Gn:12:3]. Those who bless Israel will be blessed; those who curse her will be cursed. 4. Do not fear, and do not hate. Don’t be intimidated by political correctness and therefore fail to shine the Light of Christ into this darkening world. Let His Light of love and soul-freedom shine!