Proper 28: Gospel, Luke 21:5-28                                          

Luke 21:5-28

Luke 21 is one of a group of passages across the gospels that point to those days which usher in the end of all things. They are somewhat mysterious and open to a myriad of ideas, approaches and interpretations. And that has been true since the words were written centuries ago.

Just one point to which I want to gather attention in this passage, although do read it all. In context, Jesus is announcing to his closest followers that there is a day coming when the temple in Jerusalem will be totally destroyed. It is difficult for us to imagine what that meant to a first-century Jew. The temple was the entire universe to a faithful Jew. It was the place, par excellence, where the glories of heaven touched the dust of earth. And the Jew placed all his hope there.

Understandably, even though they certainly did not understand all that Jesus was pointing to, they wanted to engage Him on the mysteries He laid before them. It is his first words in response to which I want to draw attention. In verse 8 Jesus responds, “See that you are not led astray.” After this he focuses them that the issue of deception will not primarily circulate around the temple, but around His Person. It gives clue to the idea that until the very end, the principal confusion in the world will remain, “Who is this Jesus?” 

Jesus IS the temple. Jesus IS the hope and fulfillment of all that Israel held in their hearts. Jesus IS the perfect Israel in one Man. Do not be led astray. Do not be distracted. Focus on Jesus. Stay close to the Source.