Our scripture today is Mark 13:1-8.
As Jesus was leaving the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look, Teacher! What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!” “Do you see all these great buildings?” replied Jesus. “Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.” As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John and Andrew asked him privately, “Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?” Jesus said to them: “Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and will deceive many. When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains.”
With characteristic human pride, a disciple points out the “massive stones and magnificent buildings”. Jesus replies that like all human efforts, it will eventually disappear due to time or as is the case for the temple, be destroyed by other humans. He wants us to remember that everything here is temporary.
When we become too wrapped up in the things of earth, we can be distracted from the eternal plan God has for us. Jesus says to take care not to be deceived by false teachers and to be ready for the trials that will precede the end time. If we focus on His teachings, we will not be caught unaware.
Jesus tells us that all can be saved, but we must share the Good News for everyone to hear. People must make their own choice but we have a responsibility to ensure that God’s love is spread everywhere. Nothing else we do will last eternally.
Gracious God, we are grateful that You call us to be part of Your plan, connected to You and each other. Help us to be the people You intend, caring for all Your creation. Amen.