The world does not revolve around human beings, or their social, business, economic or political ambitions. The world and all the planetary systems were created through Christ and sustained by Him to serve His purpose (Hebrews 1:2-3). However all of creation has been corrupted through the rebellion of mankind and, one day, will be decommissioned by the Lord when He returns (2 Peter 3:10-12) – awaiting a new heaven and earth which will be the home of righteousness (2 Peter 3:13). In today's verse Jesus quoted from Isaiah 13:10; 34:4. When He moves to judge the world it is not only people who will be affected, the righteous and unrighteous; it will affect all of God’s creation.
 
However, this verse also fits well with the descriptions of what would happen immediately after the fall of Jerusalem in AD70, which was described in the previous verses (Matthew 24:4-28). It is a dark picture. God’s people had systematically rejected the Lord of Glory; they had turned their backs on the Light of the World … why should the heavenly bodies shine? The cosmos is not simply an evidence of the greatness of God, but a majestic backdrop to the drama of God's relationship with human beings through Jesus Christ. When He is rejected - the lights go out.
 
There is a lot of talk nowadays about saving the planet; and it is good that we should be wise stewards of what God has given to us. But this world and the rest of the universe is not heaven. It is corrupted like we are, and will only find its fulfilment when Jesus returns and 'the children of God are revealed' (Romans 8:19-21). Until then there will be all kinds of disturbances in our world and universe. Some may bring earthquakes and floods in the disturbed natural world just as wars are manifestations of disturbed humanity (Matthew 24:6-8).
 
It is easy to isolate ourselves in our little micro-worlds where we are kings and queens. But that is not reality. We live in a cosmic environment. Despite what some people think, the planets can never control our destiny; their own future is limited and bound up with God's intention to place His redeemed people in a perfect environment with no disturbance of any kind. Until then we will need to endure all kinds of disturbances, and learn from them to repent while there is time (Luke 13:1-5).