Listen

Jesus said, “Watch out that no one deceives you. Many people will come in my name, saying, ‘I’m the one!’ They will deceive many people. When you hear of wars and reports of wars, don’t be alarmed. These things must happen, but this isn’t the end yet. Nations and kingdoms will fight against each other, and there will be earthquakes and famines in all sorts of places. These things are just the beginning of the sufferings associated with the end.”

Mark 13:5-8

Think

As a child and young man, I remember sitting through many sermons about “end times.” I must admit, it was a little scary. Today, Jesus provides clarity about his temple remarks by basically saying, “Things are going to be tough; folks will try to deceive you; the world will be in bad shape. And that is just the start.” I can see why I was frightened.

Remember, the disciples asked the question… they wanted to know what was coming. Jesus was simply honest. He also said, “Don’t be alarmed.” While his honesty is enlightening, I don’t think fear should be our response. Fear locks you down. I think that is the last thing Jesus wanted.

If anything, Jesus’ words should give us urgency to do his work – as I said in yesterday’s devotion – to “play our positions,” caring and responding at every opportunity.

Where and how can you be Jesus to others today?

Bill Ogletree

Pray

God, sometimes the truth is scary. Don’t let fear make me immobile. Instead, let me live into your calling on my life. Amen.

Go

Stay focused on Jesus, and work to play your position with boldness.

Consider the words of Trappist monk and theologian Thomas Merton:

“My Lord God […] I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire.”