“On that day his feet shall stand on the Mount of Olives that lies before Jerusalem on the east, and the Mount of Olives shall be split in two from east to west by a very wide valley, so that one half of the Mount shall move northward, and the other half southward.” – Zechariah 14:4
The Mount of Olives is the last place where the feet of Jesus stood before ascending to Heaven in Acts 1. It’s also where His feet will touch down upon His return in glory. Overlooking the Kidron Valley just to the east of Jerusalem, this is where Christ will return in power to defeat the forces of evil, bring His Kingdom to completion, judge mankind in righteousness, and usher in the renewal of creation.
We don’t know when that day will come, but we should be confident that it will come. When it comes, It will be glorious for those who love Jesus and terrifying for those who don’t. Christ’s return to the Mount of Olives isn’t some vague possibility or folk tale. It is our strong and confident hope in the future of this world despite its many troubles.
Until that day, whether it’s today or thousands of years from now, followers of Jesus are commanded to live quiet, faithful lives, that glorify Christ and testify to His reality. We must take up our cross daily as Jesus invited us, denying ourselves to follow, serve, and glorify Him. Out of the overflow of His love and grace toward us, we are to faithfully make disciples, near and far. That is how we live prepared for Christ’s return at all times.
Are you prepared? Are you sharing love and hope with those you encounter? Are you helping believers grow in their love and obedience to Jesus? If not, are you really prepared for what will happen at the Mount of Olives? What’s holding you back? How should you to take up your cross today? Be prepared! #FollowJesus