In Genesis 1:14, we are told the stars are there for "signs and seasons." The Wise Men used the signs in their time's night sky as a general guide of when and where the Messiah was born. As they journeyed to each point, they gained knowledge and adjusted their course accordingly.
From the locations, the book of Ezra, and historical travel methods, the journey was at the very least a couple to a few months long. From Herod's decree to murder any child under 2, we know it could have taken as long as two years. Some scholars I have read extend that journey's timeline to three.
Many Christians believe there will be similar signs in the sky pointing to the time of Christ's return. Because of certain Scriptures mentioning signs in the sky coupled with the frequent paralleling of events in Scripture, I think this is something to which to give consideration. Jesus points to celestial signs as away to tell the time for His return:
“But in those days, following that distress, “‘the sun will be darkened and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’ “At that time people will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. Mark 13:24-26
Looking for signs in the heavens to help us prepare for the Lord's return is Biblical. This is not the same thing as the Biblically forbidden astrology in which individuals seek guidance for daily living from the stars. God is who we should go to for guidance and wisdom. This is about watching the signs God put in place for the unfolding of His story.
A lot of people are getting excited about celestial events that have happened frequently which makes me cautious. However, when you look at all of these things together in light of Scripture: world events, the overall constellation story playing out, and the physical calendar (Fig Tree parable + Israel 1948 + a generation), there certainly is a compelling reason to expect the Lord's imminent return. That makes me keep it on my radar.
As verbs the difference between predict and speculate
is that predict is to make a prediction: to forecast, foretell, or estimate a future event on the basis of knowledge and reasoning; to prophesy a future event on the basis of mystical knowledge or power while speculate is to think, meditate or reflect on a subject; to consider, to deliberate or cogitate. source
Dear Reader, Clearly, God wants us to take note of what we see and compare those things to what Jesus said about His return. We should take heed that our speculations do not turn into predictions. As time passes, our speculations may need to be reconsidered with new insight we gain along the way. The command to be vigilant serves a mighty purpose of keeping Christians living for Christ and reaching out to others. I encourage you to study the parable of the 10 Virgins.
