Our scripture this week is Mark 13:24-37, taken today from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV).
“But in those days, after that suffering, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in clouds’ with great power and glory. Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven. “From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. “But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Beware, keep alert; for you do not know when the time will come. It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to be on the watch. Therefore, keep awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or at dawn, or else he may find you asleep when he comes suddenly. And what I say to you I say to all: Keep awake.”
In this lesson Jesus tells us we are to carry on the ministry He has started. He says “It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his slaves in charge, each with his work” (v. 34). We all have tasks to be accomplished for His kingdom.
He has taught us that we are all gifted individually and need to use those skills and resources for God’s purpose. He also showed us the need to work together and how much we can do as His body united. Showing the world His love in this way demonstrates the joy of a relationship with Him and with each other.
Look for ways to share your gifts as a person and as part of God’s family. There is a whole world in need of hearing the Good News and seeing it in action. When we use what God has given as He intended, we are all blessed.
Loving Lord, send us into the world to share Your love with all our brothers and sisters. May our witness and work bring everyone to You. Amen.