Following Jesus · Part 24 of 40 · 2 min
Jesus Promises to Return
Jesus and his disciples left the temple and went to the Mount of Olives. His friends had questions about the future.
They sat with Jesus on the hillside.
He explained that difficult times would come. There would be troubles, false teachers, and people who tried to frighten or mislead others.
His friends should not believe every alarming claim. They needed to hold on to his words and keep sharing God's love.
Jesus also gave them a promise full of hope. He would come again.
His return would not be a secret that only a few people could see. He described a coming that would be seen with power and glory.
He taught them to be ready by living faithfully, helping others, and trusting him.
The hillside breeze moved through the trees.
His followers did not need to guess a date or make others afraid. Their work was to keep loving and serving while they waited.
We do not know everything tomorrow will bring. But we can choose what to do today.
We can tell the truth, care for a neighbor, and remember Jesus' promise. Hope gives us courage to do good, even when the world feels uncertain.
Retelling of Matthew 24:1–14,29–31.
Supporting reading: The Desire of Ages, chapter 69. Open the book
Talk about it together
- Hope
- Commitment
- What did Jesus promise his friends when they discussed the future?
- How could that promise give them hope during difficult days?
- What help can we offer today as we wait with hope?
Activity · 2–5 minutes
The Good We Can Do
Name a small worry about tomorrow and listen calmly to each other. Then choose something good you can do today: keep someone company, tidy, or give thanks. Remember Jesus’ promise without trying to guess the date of his return.
Try it today: We can live with hope and do the good that is before us today.
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Recognize emotions
Open the interactive activity or prepare a printable sheet for home, classroom, or family.
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