Even in the days leading up to his suffering and death, Jesus focused steadily on his heavenly origin and his glorious future. In our reading for today he speaks again of his return at the end of time in power and glory!

Though Christians have sometimes puzzled over what Jesus meant by “signs in the sun, moon, and stars,” his overall message is clear: the Son of Man is Lord over all things. Just as death could not keep Jesus in its grip, neither can the anguish and perplexity of this world prevent God from fulfilling his good purposes for his people.

Jesus’ words contain a warning: final judgment will be a reality. The Jesus who walked this earth is also the ascended Lord who will return as Judge of all. All who ever lived will either find their redemption in Jesus or be shaken by God’s judgment.

Jesus’ words are actually a comfort for all who trust in him. We face plenty of “anguish and perplexity” in our world today. Weather patterns wreak havoc through storms, floods, and droughts. Nations threaten one another. Violence infects our cities—and even our homes. Jesus points us beyond the grim reality of death to future resurrection and glory.

Whatever you and your loved ones face today, may you “lift up your heads” toward Jesus, your ascended Lord.