Tesco is no longer taking more market share from its rivals and their like for like sales have dropped. Something else is happening out there.
More worryingly, there are signs that Russia is playing a dangerous game of destabilising Ukraine. And of course, the Middle East is in turmoil, and the Indian elections have yet to reveal who will lead that nation. The same could be said for Afghanistan as well.
The old order of Western domination is changing, and we don't know how the future might look. That is significantly scary for plenty of people.
Jesus spoke about the signs of the times to his disciples. '“Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, and there will be famines and plagues in many lands, and there will be terrifying things and great miraculous signs from heaven.' (Luke 21.10-11)
He also used an illustration that is very appropriate for this time of year, as we see trees producing leaves and flowers. 'Then he gave them this illustration: “Notice the fig tree, or any other tree. When the leaves come out, you know without being told that summer is near. In the same way, when you see all these things taking place, you can know that the Kingdom of God is near.' (Luke 21.29-31)
Jesus encourages us to take note of what is taking place around us, and instead of being terrified by what we see, he tells us to trust that God is in control, and that his Kingdom rule is becoming more obvious.
In the context of this particular week, when we watch Jesus being betrayed, arrested, denied, tried and executed, we also recall that the crowned King rules from his cross. 'Hallelujah! What a Saviour!'
Best wishes,
Richard
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