Sermon for 2nd Sunday of Advent. The Scripture readings are Malachi 4:1-6; Romans 15:4-13; and Luke 21:25-36.

Of all the passages of Scripture describing Christ’s return, this one (Lk. 21:25-36) might be the most encouraging and reassuring because it puts perspective on all the evil that surrounds you. The signs Jesus mentions are signs for you to straighten up. In other words, while the world and all creation crumbles around you, you are to raise up your heads because your redemption is drawing near.

This fallen, sinful world is walking straight into a trap that will devour them and be their end. But not you. For you, Christian, you who have been redeemed by Christ, Jesus’ return is no trap. It is your great hope and expectation. It is your liberation. It is the day of your deliverance and eternal freedom.

We don’t like it when the world seems to be coming apart at the seams. Our fear probably lies in the fact that this world is all we have experienced and known. So, when we see it falling apart at an alarming rate, we get anxious. Repent. This world is not all there is.

This world is ending. Good riddance. Every sign pointing to the end of this world is a sign of your rescue. Those signs are pointing you to the return of your Deliverer, your King, your Savior. Come quickly, Lord Jesus (Rev. 22:20).