DAILY READING
REFLECTION
Watch!!
by Elaine Pierce
This is a challenging passage, isn't it? The disciples admire the beautiful temple; it was truly a wonder of the ancient world, but Jesus reminds them of how temporal it is (see v. 2 - the temple was destroyed in 70 A.D.). Then Jesus expands his teaching to tell them about when the end of the world as we know it will come. Many, many well-meaning theologians and scholars have studied these verses and others in scripture and have attempted to set a date and a time when "people will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory" (v. 26) It sounds so majestic and exciting, and I would love to be here to witness this!
He reminds his disciples - and us - that no one, not even the angels in heaven - know the day or the hour when Christ will return. So rather than spending our time trying to pin down the date, what should be we doing?
Therefore, keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back... What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!'" (v. 35, 37)
A mother watches her baby carefully, making sure no harm comes to him.
A soldier keeps watch through the night, protecting his country.
A farmer watches his crops, making sure no pests invade and destroy his livelihood.
A doctor watches his patients for signs of health or disease and prescribes treatment that will be effective and safe.
How do we watch for Jesus' return? We watch joyfully; we watch with anticipation, and we watch knowing we are forgiven and redeemed and will be with him for all eternity.
Our "watch party" could be when we gather for Sunday worship... when we join our small group for prayer... we don't know the day or the hour, but we know he is faithful and he will keep his promises.
PRAYER
Lord, you are coming again, and everyone will know that you are Lord. Every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess your name. Spend a few minutes meditating on his glory - this classic may help you prepare to watch and wait. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUZEtVbJT5c
