Be alert!
by Rachael Stelzer
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But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come (Mark 13:32,33).
Read Mark 13:28–37
At the start of this chapter, Jesus’ disciples asked him to tell them when the End Times would happen. He answers their question in two seemingly contrasting ways. First, he gives the example of the fig tree. When you see the leaves of the fig tree sprout, you know that summer is coming. So look around and see the signs that the end is imminently on its way.
Then, he changes the metaphor and emphasis entirely. He paints the picture of a master leaving his house and leaving servants in charge of the house. No one knows exactly when he will return. So, they need to be ready and alert for their master’s arrival.
Jesus’ message? Be alert, and look for the signs of his return, even though we do not know exactly when it will be. Do not become complacent, and do not despair, but be ready. Read the signs. Understand that his return will take us by surprise, but don’t be surprised when it does.
Mark’s audience had already witnessed the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem and yearned for Christ’s return. In 2023, with the institutional church in decline around the world and with signs of the end all around us, shouldn’t we also look for these signs and stay alert for our Lord’s return?
Dear Jesus, help us to look around us at the indicators that you will return and to serve you as best we can as we wait for your arrival. Let us love others in your name, and help us to welcome many more into your family as we wait for those beautiful words, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant’ (Matthew 25:21). Amen.
Rachael Stelzer is the Primary Lay Chaplain at Coomera Anglican College near Brisbane. She is a member of Our Saviour Lutheran Church in Rochedale and teaches primary kids in the Growing Kids group. Rachael loves crafts, reading, and sharing meals, coffee and life with her family and friends.
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