The Promise of Spring

By Romina Chevren

"Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see all these things, you know that it is near, right at the door. Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away."—Matthew 24:32–35 (NIV)

In today’s passage, Jesus offers us an unshakeable anchor amidst life's storms—the enduring nature of His Word. He draws upon the familiar imagery of a fig tree to impart a profound lesson to His disciples and to us. He points out that just as the budding of a fig tree heralds the arrival of summer, so do the signs of the times indicate the nearness of His return. The world may be in flux, but amidst the chaos, there’s a certainty—a promise—that God's plan is unfolding according to His divine timing.

When we look around us today, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the tumult of the world. Wars, natural disasters, social unrest—these are but a few of the signs Jesus spoke of. Yet, rather than succumbing to fear or despair, Jesus invites us to see these signs as reminders of His faithfulness and sovereignty. They’re not meant to cause panic, but to prompt vigilance and readiness.

Moreover, Jesus assures us that His words will never pass away. In a world where everything is transient, kingdoms rise and fall, and even the earth itself will one day perish, the words of Jesus stand as an eternal beacon of hope. They’re a source of comfort, guidance, and strength amid life's uncertainties.

So, what does it mean for us to anchor ourselves in the evergreen Word of Jesus Christ?

First, it means placing our trust in His promises. Just as the fig tree reliably produces leaves in anticipation of summer, so too can we rely on the faithfulness of God to fulfill His Word. When the storms of life rage around us, we can find solace in knowing that Jesus has promised to never leave us nor forsake us.

Second, anchoring ourselves in the Word of Christ requires a posture of readiness and watchfulness. We’re called to discern the signs of the times and live with a sense of urgency, knowing His return could be any moment. This means cultivating a life of prayer, seeking His guidance and wisdom in all things, and actively engaging in the work of His kingdom.

Lastly, anchoring ourselves in the Word of Christ compels us to live lives that bear witness to His truth and love. As followers of Jesus, we’re called to be salt and light in a world desperate for hope and redemption. We’re called to embody the values of the kingdom—love, justice, mercy, and compassion—in our words and deeds.

Amidst the uncertainty and upheaval of our world, let us take heart in the unchanging nature of Christ's Word. Like the fig tree that signals the arrival of summer, His promises stand as a firm foundation upon which we can build our lives. May we anchor ourselves in His Word, live with eager expectation of His return, and shine brightly as beacons of hope in a darkened world.

Pause: Take a moment to close your eyes and imagine a fig tree in the early stages of spring with its branches adorned with tender shoots and vibrant leaves. Reflect on the imagery Jesus used in Matthew 24:32–35 and consider the certainty it brings amidst life's uncertainties. As you pause, allow the peace of God's unchanging promises to wash over you.

Practice: Today, practice being mindful of the signs of God's faithfulness in your life and the world around you. Notice the budding signs of His presence—perhaps in the kindness of a stranger, the beauty of nature, or the quiet whisper of His Spirit. Take time to journal these moments, acknowledging them as reminders of His enduring love and sovereignty.

Pray: Gracious God, we thank You for the timeless truths found in Your Word. As we reflect on Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:32–35, we’re reminded of Your faithfulness and steadfast love. Help us, Lord, to discern the signs of Your presence in our lives and to live with eager anticipation of Your return. May Your Word dwell richly in our hearts, anchoring us in hope and guiding us in truth. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.