Signs point to the coming of the Son of Man and the kingdom of God: “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth.” Beginning with verse 29, a parable describes the fig tree, like all trees, offering signs that summer is near...

Reflect upon how believing in God’s promises reshapes our perceptions of life and the world. In prayer, ask God to give you new lenses to see God’s presence and actions.


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Lectionary Week
November 26 – December 2, 2018
Scripture Overview

As we prepare our hearts for Advent, the celebration of Jesus’ first coming, we remember in Jeremiah that the birth of Jesus has a deep background, a background rooted in God’s promise to David. Psalm 25, traditionally credited to David, speaks of God’s faithfulness to those who follow the paths of the Lord. David asks God to teach him to follow God’s paths even more closely. The New Testament readings actually point us toward Jesus’ second coming. Paul encourages the Thessalonians to excel in holiness and love while they wait. In Luke, Jesus discusses the coming of the kingdom in a passage that some find confusing. We note that he focuses not on the exact time frame of the arrival of the kingdom but on our need to be alert.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

• Read Jeremiah 33:14-16. What has been your experience with a promise-making and promise-keeping God?
• Read Psalm 25:1-10. How do you perceive God’s instruction in your life?
• Read 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13. How has God’s presence buoyed you up in times of persecution or distress?
• Read Luke 21:25-36. What is your Advent posture this year? If “believing is seeing” were true in your life, what would you see?

Respond by posting a prayer.