In this passage, Jesus predicts a dark time in Jerusalem’s history when the city would fall to the Romans, many Jews would be killed, and many Christians would be persecuted. Jesus’ words would be fulfilled in 70 A.D.
But he also tells us of more terrible times to come. If you think this world is bad now, it will get much worse before Jesus comes.
We see it in Jesus’ words here. We also see it in more detail in Matthew 24:4-14. And because of all the trouble that will come, it would be easy for us to lose hope.
That’s why Jesus told us,
Be on your guard, so that your minds are not dulled from carousing, drunkenness, and worries of life, or that day (that is, Judgment day) will come on you unexpectedly like a trap.
For it will come on all who live on all who live on the face of the whole earth.
But be alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place and to stand before the Son of Man. (Luke 21:34-36)
When things get hard, it’s easy to just give up and despair. But we do have hope. What is that hope?
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words never pass away. (33)
In short, Jesus never lies, and all he promises will come to pass. What is his promise?
Then they (all people) will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
But when these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is near. (28)
No matter how bad this world gets, never forget: Jesus wins! He is our hope. So as Paul wrote ,
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the Lord’s work, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Moment to Moment (Bible blog) 