Hope in the Middle of Hard Times—Jesus Is Coming Back (Luke 21:25-38)
In Luke 21:25–38, Jesus continues talking about the future. He describes some very intense events that will happen before He returns. But even though the things He says sound scary, His message is full of hope, encouragement, and direction for how to live.
Let’s take a closer look at what He said—and why it still matters today.
Signs in the Sky and Distress on Earth
Jesus said that in the last days, there will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars. On earth, people will be confused and afraid because of what’s happening around them. It will feel like the whole world is shaking.
“People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world.” (v. 26)
That sounds pretty overwhelming! But then Jesus says something amazing:
“At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.” (v. 27)
In other words, Jesus is coming back—not in weakness, but in glory and strength.
Lift Up Your Heads
Even though there will be trouble, Jesus tells His followers not to be afraid. He says:
“When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (v. 28)
That’s powerful. Jesus wants us to look up with confidence, not down in fear. These signs aren’t the end of the story—they’re the beginning of a new one, when God sets everything right.
A Lesson from the Fig Tree
To help people understand the timing, Jesus gives a simple picture: the fig tree. When its leaves start to appear, you know summer is near. In the same way, when we see the things He talked about happening, we’ll know His return is getting closer.
He also says something important:
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” (v. 33)
That means everything around us may change, but God’s Word will always stand.
Be Ready
Jesus ends this section with a loving warning. He tells His followers to stay alert and not let their hearts get distracted or weighed down with worry or partying or chasing after temporary pleasures.
“Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” (v. 36)
He wants us to live with purpose—not fear—so we’re ready when He returns.
Jesus Taught Daily
The chapter ends with a small but beautiful note: every day, Jesus taught at the temple, and people got up early just to listen to Him.
That’s a reminder for us, too. Let’s make time to listen to Jesus every day, through prayer, Scripture, and quiet reflection.
What This Means for Us Today
This passage may talk about big, dramatic events, but its message is simple and encouraging:
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Jesus is coming back. That’s not just a warning—it’s a promise full of hope.
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Don’t be afraid—look up. When the world gets dark or uncertain, remember God is still in control.
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Stay focused and stay faithful. Keep your heart centered on God, not distracted by worry or temporary stuff.
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Hold on to God’s Word. His promises will never change.
Final Thought:
The world can feel shaky sometimes, but Jesus tells us to lift our heads, not lower them. He’s coming again—not to scare us, but to save us. So let’s live with hope, stay ready, and keep our eyes on Him.
Luke 21:25-38 (WEB)
21:25 “There will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars; and on the earth anxiety of nations, in perplexity for the roaring of the sea and the waves; 26 men fainting for fear and for expectation of the things which are coming on the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 But when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is near.”29 He told them a parable. “See the fig tree and all the trees. 30 When they are already budding, you see it and know by your own selves that the summer is already near. 31 Even so you also, when you see these things happening, know that God’s Kingdom is near. 32 Most certainly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things are accomplished. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will by no means pass away.34 “So be careful, or your hearts will be loaded down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that day will come on you suddenly. 35 For it will come like a snare on all those who dwell on the surface of all the earth. 36 Therefore be watchful all the time, praying that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will happen, and to stand before the Son of Man.”37 Every day Jesus was teaching in the temple, and every night he would go out and spend the night on the mountain that is called Olivet. 38 All the people came early in the morning to him in the temple to hear him.