Jesus prepares his followers for the events to come after his death. He encourages them not to worry, and to be watchful and discerning of all that is going on around them. From Roman occupation and the oppressive regimes of Pilate and Herod, to the arrogant and hypocritical leadership of the Jewish religious authorities – and then, in the middle of it all, Jesus himself; a young prophet proclaiming the coming of God’s kingdom, healing the sick and calling people to live a fruitful life of repentance. Can the people not see that this is the moment that all of Israel’s history has been waiting for? That the time for her to respond is therefore short?
• Can you sense the urgency in Jesus’ voice here? And if so, what does that urgency have to say to you about the way in which you live out your faith?
• In what ways are you (and/or your Life Group) bearing fruit for God’s kingdom?
• In what ways are you anxious today?
• Can you bring those anxieties to God in prayer, in the knowledge that you are subject to God’s care, and that he knows what you need even before you ask?
