On the fringes of New Orleans, we watch the weather constantly. Are the skies clear and sunny? Or filled with wispy grey clouds? Or are the heavens roiling with churning green and charcoal cumulous? Often, those all occur on the same day.

But we keep one ear to the radio and one eye on the National Hurricane Center, watching for watches and warnings, and for the wind-whipped red flags that indicate a coming cyclone. Any day can tease up a quick, vicious downpour, or a roaring waterspout. And winds can arise to twist and snap 80-foot pines and cypress into dangers that crush cars and cut through houses. Looking for the warning signs can make the difference between life and death.

For the observant Christian, there are also warning signs. And our guide is the Bible. This year, this decade is already fluttering with red flags. Stay alert and stay tuned. #Maranatha.