Signs of the End

 

 

 Luke 21: 5-11

The Destruction of the Temple and Signs of the End Times

⁵ Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, ⁶ “As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down.”

⁷ “Teacher,” they asked, “when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place?”

⁸ He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is near.’ Do not follow them. ⁹ When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.”

¹⁰ Then he said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. ¹¹ There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.

Endings are tough to swallow:  the end of a good book or movie, the end of a happy career or of a loved one's life.  We seem to hate change and love the status quo, but Jesus reminds us forcefully that the things of this life will pass away.  As we come to the end of this liturgical year, we need to be reminded that "we have not here a lasting city" and this world as we know it will too pass away.  We are called to focus on the essentials: how much we loved God and neighbor, how far did we go in being a "person for others."  If we have a good record with these, then we will have no fear of the end.

Bro. Rene

Gracious Father, you are our comfort, our guide, and our shield through the turbulent tide of personal trials and humanity’s distress. When the troubles of this world rise up against us, give us firm resolve to speak your truth and share your mercy. May we faithfully cling to your wisdom, made flesh in Christ Jesus and dwelling with us in the Spirit. For you are God forever and ever. Amen.

 Rev. Geoffrey Mooney, C.S.C.