As I took my morning hike I looked up and saw a cloud covered sky. In some ways that was disappointing for me. I love to see the moon, stars, and planets while I hike. But, of course, clouds do serve many good purposes. They often bring the rain that nourishes the earth and crops. They also often signal a change in the weather.
Jesus spoke of a cloud that will one day signal the biggest change that the earth and its inhabitants have ever known. In Luke 21:25-28 He said, “And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on earth distress of nations in perplexity because of the roaring of the seas and the waves, people fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world. For the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
To the Christian, we yearn for and long to see these events. It means that Jesus is returning to take us to our home in the New Heaven and New Earth. For unbelievers, however, this cloud signals the end of earth and everything they hold dear. Only an eternity of suffering awaits. The Son of God’s return signals two outcomes. One is eternity spent in the presence of God Almighty. But the other outcome will be darkness and suffering for many. We choose our eternal destiny. Make the right choice! Believe in Jesus Christ!
Reluctant Retiree 