This part most definitely does refer to events surrounding AD66-70. The "abomination that causes desolation" is a reference to Daniel (Dan 9:27, 11:31, 12:11). The original application was to Antiochus Epiphanes erecting a pagan altar to Zeus in the temple in 168 BC. It then applied to the Roman destruction of Jerusalem in AD66-70, something that Luke makes explicit (Luke 23:29). There is also practical instruction here to flee to the mountains. Many observed this instruction an so their lives were saved.
There are several things to note here. One is that there would be an emotional attachment to Jerusalem, and one that had a seeming justification in Scripture. For Jerusalem is clearly special, and it would be tempting to think "God will never let Jerusalem be destroyed, especially His temple". Jesus tells them that this is wrong and dangerous thinking. They must flee without delay. Secondly, the prophecy has at least two fulfilments, and quite possibly has a third applying to the very last times. This is a common pattern in Biblical prophecy, with many of them having a historical practical fulfilment, and also referring either to Christ's first or second coming. The immediate historical fulfilment shows that the "complete" fulfilment will be real and that the prophecy is trustworthy. Note also the very practical application given to the prophecy.
Jesus also tells them to pray that it will not happen in winter. Now this could be taken as simply a way of saying that you had better hope it does not happen at a difficult time. Or it could be taken as an instruction to actually pray this. We are mistaken when we take pronouncements in Scripture as meaning there is no point doing anything. Jesus clearly implies here that God's actions will be influenced by our prayers. When God speaks He does so with the hope and intention that we will respond to His word and act upon it.
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