What Jesus Did! 'Caught Up in the Clouds!' — Luke 17:34-36

Monday, October 16, 2023

Merry Christmas!

We pray the Lord blesses you with the grace of Jesus' presence this Christmas!

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[Talking about his return, Jesus continued,] "That night two people will be asleep in one bed; one will be taken, the other left. Two women will be grinding flour together at the mill; one will be taken, the other left."
— Luke 17:34-36 NLT

Key Thought

Being taken with Jesus is often called the rapture, although that term is never used in the New Testament in this regard. I prefer to call it "caught up in the clouds!" This phrase comes from Paul's explanation of these events at Jesus' return. [1] When Jesus ascended into heaven, the apostles were told that Jesus would also return in the clouds. [2] We await this day of victory and glory that is promised. However, for those who do not belong to the Lord, this will be a day they are left behind. Meanwhile, the children of God will receive their ultimate adoption as his children and will be ushered into his presence by Jesus in his glory and in the glory of the angels that accompany him.

[1] 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.
[2] Mark 13:26.

Today's Prayer

Father, I long for and look forward to the day of Jesus' return. My only anxiety about that day is that I want all those I know to be ready and to accompany me into your presence. Please give me the words to say and the character of life to show these friends, acquaintances, and loved ones how to be ready and to anticipate this day with joy. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
  • Acts 1:6-11
  • Revelation 1:5-7

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Illustration

Illustration of Luke 17:34-36 NLT — "That night two people will be asleep in one bed; one will be taken, the other left. Two women will be grinding flour together at the mill; one will be taken, the other left."

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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