Mark 13:1-37Certainly with all the conflict, violence and natural disasters, the end must be near. How could things get much worse? Evil is personified in so many ways; terrorist, tyrants, and gangs all threaten the safety and security of the human family. Just when we think the news could not get any worse, the headlines bring yet another round of stories concerning atrocities and hate. On the flip side, the world has also seen its share of false Messiahs come and go. Leaders of cults and outlandish religious movements mislead millions. They have swayed many to false belief throughout the years. Considering all of this, the end surely must be near.
The notion of living in the end times is not something that is new. Many of the early Christians believed Jesus would come soon, bringing his judgment and wrath upon those who deny his grace and lordship. Yet, Jesus tells us that many of the instances we point to are just the beginnings of the birth pangs. Jesus says these things will take place, and as we look back upon the centuries of Church history, these things have occurred and promise to continue.
There is another promise God’s people can count on, the promise of eternal life in Christ Jesus. Just as we become witness to all that is evil in our fallen world, we also will see the Son of Man in the clouds coming with great power and glory. Jesus promises to come again and reveal the kingdom of God in all of its fullness to those who believe. Until he comes, Jesus commands his people to continue in his ways, love God above all else and love our neighbors as ourselves.
Eternal God, as we await your coming in glory, give us faith that we may remain steadfast in your Word. Amen.
My Lutheran Roots 