Getting to Know Jesus' Passion #8

In Luke 21, Jesus had just told His followers about the coming destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, and then the far future time of His return in judgment. We then find in verse:

29 And he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. 30 As soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. 31 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32 Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

The disciples had wanted to know "the signs" for when these things would happen; they wanted to know the time.  Like the seasons of the year, we know ahead what is coming.  There may be a mean return of winter in Spring, or what we call an "Indian Summer" in the Fall, but the change of seasons will be obvious; it is coming. The phrase "this generation" has confused many, as we often think in terms of 40, 50 or 70 years. But often as used in scripture, it has to do more with the kind of people God is dealing with, whether it be in judgment or in deliverance.  Jesus' point is that His return is coming; we can count on it. Even when it seems the world is falling apart, His promises hold true.