Mark 13:18
This is one of those short little verses that we just skip over. However, it is very revealing. How so? Well, why would Jesus tell them to pray for their escape to not have to happen in the winter if he already knew exactly when all of this would happen? It would be easier to tiptoe around this. But, it is important to ask such questions.
There are two answers. First, as we have already mentioned and explained, this prophecy has a double fulfillment. So, we are not speaking of just one event. One could occur in the dead of summer, and another some other time. Secondly, God communicates to us within time. So, even though Jesus knew exactly what would happen, the future actions of the Jewish people could still change the timing of future events. Jesus alludes to this principle in his wheat and tares parable. God allows history to take its course, so to speak. He knows what we will do, and what he will do, and still tells us to pray and ask for his will to be done.
Heavenly Father, help us to be thankful for the little things. Every little incident, every circumstance, every happenstance, is something you have allowed to come across our path. We must not assume their are accidents, but only events that were unintended by us. You are the Great and Mighty God of all. You show us your Power and Love in everything you have made, no matter how small. Thank you! In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise you, Amen.