November 20, 2015

Instruction
Scripture: Mark 13:24-37
As we read this passage we should remember that this conversation was sparked because one of Jesus’ disciples was overawed by the physical glory of that place. Jesus, having been asked when the destruction of the temple would take place, began to talk also about the end of all things and His second coming. The impact of this passage on us is to take our eyes and thoughts off of this world so we will not be drawn to be in awe of it, but so that we fear, love, and trust in Jesus instead. 
Teaching
Carl Sagan said, “The Cosmos is all that is or was or ever will be.” Often we think of the stars, the moon, the earth, and the things upon it as though they will always persist in some way or another. But notice what Jesus says about this world we live in and the cosmic structures around it. He speaks of them being shaken and says that heaven and earth will pass away. The only thing that lasts this shaking and ending will be Jesus’ words – His promises, and the work that they do bringing salvation to those who believe.
He compares this world to a house which has a master who has gone on a journey and the servants are left in charge. The servants may do their work or neglect to do it, they may remember the master is coming or forget all about him, but whatever they do the master will return, and all will give an account. The warning is clear: the judgement is coming! That day will be terrible in earthly terms, but the believer’s hope is in the promise that the Master sent His Son to save His people.
Life
This world will end. The many things that we pursue in this life will often be shown to be useless endeavors and self-indulgence. Yet it is clear that we have been given a stewardship of this world and our lives. We are intended to live in this world, despite the fact that it will not last, and to do the work we have been given. That work is not named here, but it is to serve our God by sharing the hope we have in Christ’s death and resurrection.
We become so focused on physical things in this life. This is not wrong in-and-of-itself. It becomes a problem when we focus on the physical to the exclusion of the eternal. We lose track of what lasts: God’s Word, His promise, His salvation, even the hope we have because Jesus died and rose for us.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You have taught us that this world will end. There is, however, work for us to do in Your service until that day. We may not know the day or the hour that the cosmos will be shaken, but the signs tell us that the time is coming. It will be good for us to be awake to that truth when You come.
Thank You for making known to us that the physical world as we know it will have its end so that we do not overly focus on it. You have given us eternal goods in Your Word, particularly the message of Your salvation. Thank You! And we also thank You for the earthly blessings we steward until then.
Forgive us for dozing on the job and for not remaining alert in Your service. Forgive us for clinging to things that are temporal instead of holding on to Your eternal truth.

Keep us steadfast in Your Word and help us stay awake so that we serve You with our whole lives. Help us use the things of this world for Your eternal glory. Amen. 

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