Matthew 24:32 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:
In the winter time a fig tree has no leaves, it seems dead. But when you see the fresh leaves begin to sprout you know that summer is coming. The fig tree knows the time, like the sons of Issachar (1Chron 12:32). We too, should read the signs and see we are in perilous times (2Tim 3:1). The hearts of many will fail because of fear (Luk 21:26). Now is the time to prepare, to be secure in Christ, to be in the cleft of the Rock like Moses (2Cor 5:17, Ex 33:22). We must walk by faith, not by sight (2Cor 5:7)
God is calling us out of our comfort zone, just as He called Abraham to leave his father's land so God could make Him great (Gen 12:1-3). Now is a time of preparation. Through trials Abraham received laughter (Isaac) (Gen 21:5-6). Like Jacob, the grandson of Abraham, we must value spiritual things. Not like Esau who despised his birthright (Gen 25:31-33) The things you cannot see are more valuable. What you can see here will pass away. Make your place and position in the heavenlies (Eph 2:6).
Jacob received the blessing (Gen 27:27-29). Jacob encountered the Lord, at the same place as Abraham (Gen 28:11-22). Jacob was spiritual, he always carried oil with him (Gen 28:18). A paradigm shift happened, and he continued his journey full of strength and new vision. Jacob's life prospered. God then corrected the past deception by changing his name to Israel (Gen 32:24-28). And the promised nation was born.
The Israelites lived in the Promised Land and multiplied. But they sinned against the Lord. They went into exile. They were scattered abroad. The land became desolate. Jesus said when you see Israel (the fig tree) come back as a nation then the return of Jesus is near – this generation shall not pass away (Matt 24:34). In 1948 the United Nations voted and created the State of Israel and the Jews returned to the ancient land (Is 66:8). The land is blossoming. In 1967, during the 6 day war the Israeli army captured Jerusalem (Mt Moriah, Zion, the city of David). Now the religious leaders are planning to build the third temple on Mt Moriah, the Levites are back, and they have the red heifer. This is a grave mistake, because Jesus is the third temple. He has died as the final sacrifice and resurrected (Jn 2:21, Heb 9:13-14). Now we are the temple He is living in (1Cor 3:16). The temple they build will be taken over by the anti-christ. Look up, His return is close (Luk 21:27-29).
