Looking at the world today, you’d be right to assume that nothing currently works as it should. Nearly three years into a global pandemic, we’re still dealing with supply chain issues, labor shortages, and rapidly rising inflation. Yet, just as a repaired pipe will sputter to clear out trapped air, the world too is clearing out the effects of past damage.
Rather than give in to fear and the dread of what seems to be an impending catastrophe, let us remember Christ’s sermon on the Mount of Olives, as well as his parable of the fig tree. The Living Church of God reviews that by putting our faith in God, we can see past Satan’s work and rest assured that even in the darkest of times, we are not alone.
How COVID-19 Affected Supply Chains
The pandemic has disrupted global supply chains in a way that is unprecedented in recent history. Within the first few months, the Chinese government forced factories to close, leading to a global shortage of goods and materials. This, in turn, led to higher prices and an increase in inflation. Yet, it wasn’t just a lack of affordable Chinese products that hit supply chains.
As with Chinese factories, shipping and logistics companies also downsized their operations by forcing employees to stay home, in line with COVID safety regulations. This further disrupted the movement of goods around the world, as well as the already strained relationship between workers and management.
The pandemic has also resulted in a decrease in demand for certain products, as people are buying less and saving more. This has led to a decrease in production, as companies are forced to cut costs. The combination of all these factors has resulted in an overall decrease in the efficiency of global supply chains.
The Sermon on the Mount of Olives Serves as a Guiding Light
In the midst of all this darkness, we can find hope in Christ’s sermon on the Mount of Olives. In this sermon, Christ speaks of the end times and the tribulations that will come before his return. Yet, he also reassures us that we need not fear, for he will be with us always.
The fig tree is another reminder of this. In Christ’s parable of the fig tree, he tells us that when we see the leaves of the fig tree, we know that summer is near. This is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, we must look for the signs of Christ’s return. When summer comes, we may all rejoice in His righteous rule.
The Final Word
Even in the darkest of times, Christ is our light. He is the one who will guide us through the storm and lead us to safety. Christ’s teachings remind us that we must be like the wise virgins with our lamps filled so that when the time comes, we will be ready. These parables are a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, we must be prepared for Christ.
