Parable of the Fig Tree

As Jesus continued, each mind in the quartet was glued on when this would occur. Then in the parable, Jesus makes one specific point to them—and to us. Only the father knows when, but we are to keep alert and read the signs. As we approach the day of Jesus’s return, we may not know the day and hour, but we should recognize the season.

He then adds a comment, which taken by itself, seems strange. At his return, some will be “taken” and some not. This is generally viewed as referring to the rapture of believers. As to when the rapture occurs, there is broad disagreement, but everyone expects one.

What, however, should be our focus? It is to be the faithful servant who serves those for whom he is responsible, rather than worry about when Jesus returns.