As we move into this 22nd chapter, Luke is leading us on a journey to the crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord.

The Bible tells us that, during the future tribulation period, there are going to be cataclysmic events taking place on this planet. Yet, during this time, life will go on as normal for some people in the world and they will be totally caught by surprise when Jesus returns. Jesus tells us about that in Luke chapter 21. 

History has been filled with some amazing events but all of them pale in comparison to one event that is coming some time in the future, to which all of human history is pointing: the 2nd coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to planet earth.

There are many traditions and popular beliefs about the first Christmas that aren’t really in the Bible. This week, we consider the first Christmas in Luke chapter 2.

At this time of year, we often enjoy seeing beautiful lights and colorful displays. This Christmas Eve, we walk through the account of Jesus' birth, and see that He is a Light that is not simply to be observed, but to be followed.

God has never repented concerning His choice of Israel. He is just as committed to fulfilling His purposes with them as He has ever been. That commitment is what’s behind our text in Luke 21.  

In Luke 21, Jesus has been talking about the events that will unfold immediately prior to His 2nd coming. In verses 20-24, He pauses to talk about the time prior to and including the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple.

In today's passage, Jesus is giving His men the reassurance that regardless of what kind of rejection they experience here on earth, they will never experience rejection from Him.

In His famous Olivet Discourse, Jesus compared the future seven year tribulation period to the birth-pains of a woman in labor. Sometimes the labor begins slowly, before building to the intensity of the actual birth. That's the way the 7 year tribulation period will unfold.