Our scripture this week is Mark 13:24-37, taken today from the Christian Standard Bible (CSB).
“But in those days, after that tribulation: The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not shed its light; the stars will be falling from the sky, 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. 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. “Learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see these things happening, recognize that he is near—at the door. “Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. “Now concerning that day or hour no one knows—neither the angels in heaven nor the Son —but only the Father. “Watch! Be alert! For you don’t know when the time is coming. “It is like a man on a journey, who left his house, gave authority to his servants, gave each one his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to be alert. Therefore be alert, since you don’t know when the master of the house is coming—whether in the evening or at midnight or at the crowing of the rooster or early in the morning. Otherwise, when he comes suddenly he might find you sleeping. And what I say to you, I say to everyone: Be alert!”
Jesus teaches us that “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away” (v. 31). What He tells us about God’s love is eternal truth and will never change or disappear. Despite everything that happens around us, God’s constant love is always there.
In order to fulfill the charge we have been given, we must tell the world about this gift that surpasses all others. An old hymn says “love divine, all loves excelling, joy of heaven to earth come down”, reminding us that God loves us so much, He was willing to give up that which was most important to Him for our salvation. What can we do in return?
To honor this greatest gift, we must accept His love and share it with everyone, everywhere. We have been blessed beyond measure to be forgiven of our sins and called to an eternal connection with God. May our lives reflect the joy we know in Him.
Gracious God, we are thankful for the gift of Christ’s sacrifice and our redemption through Him. Help us to reach out in love to all Your children that they may come to You. Amen.