Observation: The parable about the fig tree is that, even though we cannot know the time of the second coming of Jesus, there will be signs that we can understand if we are wise and understanding of the ways of the Lord. This is a lesson Jesus has taught a couple times about both his second coming, and about his current ministry, using various signs of nature that all can understand to indicate that - if we were wise and paying attention - we would see signs of the Messiah.
Application: The real question is, what are the signs of the Messiah we should be looking for today? They are not the list of theoretical events Jesus previously listed, and certainly he did not give definitive information. However, similar to seeing signs of nature and just 'understanding' what they mean, and having experiences in the past that help us in that understanding, perhaps we can know better when the second coming will be.
In this way ... the attitudes and authority of those who oppose the Lord's precepts and teachings has that "feel" to it for sure. The spiritual war over gender and identity creates a scenario that is different in spiritual history, which sure seems like it could represent a new season coming soon.
I fail at always being prepared and on the lookout for my master's return. I clearly spend some days where I am not properly behaving, thinking, and performing as Jesus would like. This is an area I need to clean up, for I do feel like there is a new season coming. Yes, many generations of Christians have thought that - even prayed for it - but it feels like the "leaves" are sprouting and turning, and that so many elements of the world are indicating that something major is coming.
Prayer: Lord, may I do better at preparing for your return every day. I do not know the day and hour of your coming, but I wish to be on watch and prepared. Amen.
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