Bible Text: Jeremiah 33:14-16; Luke 21:25-31 | Pastor: Dr. Tom LaBonte | Great things often have their origin in humble beginnings. Soon we will enter into Advent as a time of preparation to celebrate the humble birth and life of Jesus. His Hebrew name is “Yeshua,” meaning “the one who comes to save.” Promised by God through the Prophets, the birth of Jesus is God’s gift of hope that we are not condemned and abandoned to mortal death. Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s Word, through his Prophet Jeremiah, 600 years before his birth. In Jeremiah 33:14-16 the Prophet announces the day is coming when God will fulfill his Covenant promise of the Messiah. Jesus will establish his reign in the hearts of believers. He will be the ultimate King of God’s Kingdom through the line of David as redeemer and savior. His mission from God will be to execute justice and righteousness throughout all lands and among all peoples.  

Beginning in our Luke 21 text through Luke 22, we find Jesus in Jerusalem preparing his disciples for what is to come. Soon he will be betrayed by one who was by his side for three years and whom he considers his brother. He knows he will be arrested and die a cruel, torturous death. Jesus prepares his disciples for the culmination of his ministry on the cross and beyond the tomb. He talks to them of things they do not comprehend. Jesus speaks of the signs for the end of times. He prophesies his resurrection, ascension and return in judgment and glory as King of a new Kingdom of God as “The Son of Man.” Jesus will give new life to those who hear and know his voice.