Sunday Sermon: Stay Awake
“29 He told them this parable: “Look at the fig tree and all the trees.
30 When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near.
31 Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.
32 “I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened.
33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.
34 “Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap.
35 For it will come upon all those who live on the face of the whole earth.
36 Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.””
Advent is a season of waiting for the coming of Jesus, marking the beginning of the liturgical year and a time to renew our faith. Today’s passage speaks of the nearness of God’s kingdom and offers a lesson to recognize the duality of worldly kingdoms, remain watchful, and wait expectantly for God’s kingdom.
First, we must deeply reflect on the duality of worldly kingdoms. In Luke 21, when the disciples marvel at the grandeur of the temple, Jesus responds, “Not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down.” This reveals that not only the trends of this world but even what we deem sacred is not eternal. Even the temple and Jerusalem were subject to destruction, illustrating the transient nature of earthly kingdoms under human limitations and the influence of sin. Amid this fleeting world, we must remain watchful to find true hope.
Second, we need an attitude of careful living within the worldly kingdom. Jesus calls us to stay awake during times of tribulation and persecution. Just as the budding fig tree signals the approach of summer, we are to discern God’s will and prepare by observing the signs of the times. To avoid becoming weighed down by dissipation, drunkenness, and the worries of life, we must carefully examine the world and our lives while seeking wisdom through God’s Word.
Third, we are called to live in anticipation of God’s kingdom. Jesus assures us that although heaven and earth may pass away, God’s Word will never disappear. As we await God’s kingdom, we must remain vigilant in prayer. While claiming to serve God, we may unknowingly build idols in our lives or fail to acknowledge His power, leading to despair. In prayer, we must discern and confront these tendencies.
Advent is not merely a time to commemorate the past event of Jesus’ first coming. It is also a season to anticipate His return and to work toward realizing God’s kingdom in our lives now. Amid the imperfections of worldly kingdoms and the need for cautious living, we must place our hope solely in God’s kingdom and stay watchful.
During this Advent season, may you deeply meditate on God’s Word, live a watchful life, and experience the joy of the near-coming kingdom of God. May you hold firmly to the eternal hope of that kingdom and move forward together in His abundant grace.
(Note: This summary was created based on an AI draft.)