On this Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost we will be reading from the beginning of chapter 13 of the Gospel according to Mark. Chapter 13 of this Gospel account is often called "the little apocalypse" because its content and form is very similar to The Book of Revelation. In this lesson, we hear Jesus talking about life in what is often called "a new heaven and a new earth." These teachings both call us to be vigilant and aware to be "everyday Christians" but also give us confidence that God is in charge, and all of God's children will find love and mercy in this new world.
Our Scripture passage is found in the Gospel according to Mark. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (Mark 13:1-8).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
Read the assigned Scripture lesson for the week from the Gospel according to Mark. Reflect on any words or phrases that had particular meaning for you. Consider that the Gospel according to Mark was likely written shortly after the destruction of the Temple (about the year 70 CE) - Mark writes to his audience and asks: how can the followers of Jesus be faithful people when the world seems upside-down. Ask that question of yourself in today's world.
Read the "WHAT..." paragraph in the guide below, and reflect on the author's words that say "Jesus' followers may trust that God is in control." Reflect on having trust in God when the world seems to be a place that reflects many "out of control" aspects to life.
Read the "WHERE..." paragraph below, and reflect on the author's ideas of "endings and beginnings." Consider the following questions: how can a time of destruction also be a time of beginning? Knowing that Mark wrote to a community being oppressed, how do you think these words might give hope?
Read the "SO WHAT..." paragraph below, and reflect on examples of how the church today should watch and focus on the one to come rather than focus on the signs of the end of time. Also consider how the idea of "end times" is also a call to consider the fragile nature of life, and how we can be attentive to the "now" and not become complacent.
