My son woke me up to the reality the end times could be very near. He’s noticed how much vitriol there is against Israel lately (Of course he’s  seeing more of this than I would see, he lives in Madison WI).

I told him, if one reads or listens to the media, it does seem like the whole world is against it (except Trump in “some” ways).  While not particularly entertaining, campus protests, boycotts,  and accusations of genocide do dominate  the narratives. I told him it reminds me of the “End Times” prophecy that says, “Then they will deliver you to tribulation, and will kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name.   10 At that time many will fall away and will betray one another and hate one another.” Of course we’re not here “yet!”

Ironically, I’m still busy reading the Olivet discourse given by Jesus just before he was crucified. Matthew 24:9-14. The passage speaks to end-time trials mixed with gospel advancement, while emphasizing divine sovereignty over the chaos. And while the perception of persecution is real enough, the real tribulation, where it will be “like no other” has not yet happened. Still, polls cite increasingly unfavorable views on Israel and Christians, the UN is still doing the hate Israel thing it’s been doing for years. And now half of America has become antisemitic. Many too “have fallen away:” Nations and neighbors are “betraying another and hate one another;” There are false prophets,  bloggers, and even whole denominations preaching a false gospel, “misleading many;” “lawlessness has increased, and people’s love has grown cold.” WHY wouldn’t one think the end is near?  These are “perilous times” as described by Jesus in Matthew.

Despite this darkness the real gospel is still being preached everywhere in the world. It’s not yet “time to head for the hills.” We’re already here! Remember, that Jesus also spoke about hope and steadfastness. He paints a vivid picture of trials testing and purifying the faithful while exposing what’s false.