Today’s scripture: Mark 13:3-27 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message)
As you read, consider: What might God be saying to me? Summarize your thoughts in a sentence or two.
My thoughts (David Zier):
On the surface of this passage, I read about destruction and the second coming. But that’s what I have always been told it says. Beneath the surface, though, I read about life.
Some of the phrases and thoughts that stand out for me are:
- “Beware that no one leads you astray.”
- “. . . do not worry beforehand about what you are to say . . . for it is not you but the Holy Spirit.”
- “. . . be alert. . . ”
I think about my own situations, when I let others or outside forces get the best of me. I allow myself to get caught up in rumor or innuendo, or I allow my own desolation get the best of me. My faith takes a hit. I doubt, I lose trust, I suffer from events that may be out of my control, and I allow my soul to be taken with the flow of all that negativity.
When I see desolating sacrilege, do I flee? In other words, do I let myself get caught up in what takes me away from God, like participating in gossip, doing harm to others even with my words, not recognizing those who need my help, or reaching out to those Jesus calls us to be with?
Or, do I flee to be with God in the mountains, as Jesus would go up the mountain to spend time with God? Do I have my own sacred place where I can spend time with God and build my relationship with God so that nothing leads me astray, and I am better able to do the things that Jesus has taught me to do?
And guess what? I will suffer. There is no guarantee of escape from suffering, but this is no excuse to allow suffering to continue. When we suffer or when we see others suffering, what is God calling on us to do? Speak out for justice. Remember, do not worry about what to say, just allow the Holy Spirit to speak out through us!
I also read that I should stay alert. Staying alert will allow me to seek God, allow the Holy Spirit to speak through me, and to see clearly the power and glory of Jesus, even when all is dark, and all seems to be going astray. Then I will be able to see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory, and I can help build God’s commonwealth by being Jesus to others.
As I read this challenging chapter, this is the message that was speaking to me loud and clear. We’re often distracted by obstacles and events, but we need to remember to flee to be with God, to remain alert, and to allow the Holy Spirit to speak the truth through us.
Prayer for the day: God, I pray that I can remain alert, that I can be aware of those distractions that lead me away from you, and that I not get in your way when you want to speak through me.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.