How can we prepare for the "days will come" mentioned in Luke 5:35? Setting the Scene “But the days will come when the Bridegroom will be taken from them; then they will fast.” (Luke 5:35) Jesus, the Bridegroom, was physically present with His disciples, but He foretold a time when He would be “taken from them”—His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. Those “days” began in Acts 1 and continue until His return. Scripture presents this season as one of watchful preparation. Recognizing the Significance of the Bridegroom’s Departure • The departure is literal: Jesus ascended (Acts 1:9–11). • The absence is temporary: He will return (John 14:3; Revelation 22:20). • The interim is purposeful: believers grow in faith, spread the gospel, and long for His appearing (Titus 2:13). Fasting: A Key Response • Focused longing: Fasting expresses yearning for closer fellowship with Christ. • Dependence: By denying the body, we confess that “man shall not live on bread alone” (Matthew 4:4). • Direction: In Acts 13:2–3 and 14:23, the church fasted for guidance and appointing leaders. Practical steps: ‒ Choose regular, scheduled fasts—sunrise to sunset, a day each week, or longer as led. ‒ Combine fasting with extended time in Scripture and prayer (Luke 2:37). ‒ Use the hunger pangs as cues to pray for Christ’s kingdom to advance. Additional Ways to Prepare for These Days 1. Persistent Prayer • “Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17) • Begin and end each day acknowledging dependence on the Lord. 2. Immersion in the Word • “All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable.” (2 Timothy 3:16) • Establish a systematic reading plan; memorize passages that anchor hope. 3. Active Holiness • “Be holy in all you do.” (1 Peter 1:15-16) • Evaluate habits, entertainment choices, and relationships; replace compromise with obedience. 4. Spirit-Led Community • “Let us consider how to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not forsaking meeting together.” (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Commit to a local church, life group, or small gathering for accountability and encouragement. 5. Gospel Witness • “You will be My witnesses.” (Acts 1:8) • Share your testimony, support missions, and engage neighbors with the hope of Christ. 6. Cultivating Expectation • “Set your minds on things above.” (Colossians 3:1-2) • Regularly meditate on passages about Christ’s return (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18). Fruits of Prepared Hearts • Deepened intimacy with the Lord despite His physical absence. • Sharpened discernment to navigate a confused culture (2 Timothy 3:1-5). • Steadfast hope that steadies in suffering (Romans 8:18-25). • Joyful anticipation, echoing “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20). Living Between Departure and Return The “days” Jesus foretold are our present reality. Through fasting, prayer, holy living, and gospel work, we prepare our hearts and the world around us for the moment the Bridegroom appears in glory. |
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