He replied: “Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am he', and, 'The time is near.'; Do not follow them. When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away”
Then he said to them: “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.” (Luke 21:8-11 NIV)
Living during 2014 can seem like a ride in a racecar careening wildly with no brakes. The road twists and turns, and the vehicle continues to pick up speed. Earthquakes, famines, pestilences, and fearful events have always occurred, but with the 24/7 news cycle and instantaneous communication, we have become so much more aware of them.
Throughout human history, the end of life as we know it has been anticipated by both true prophets and charlatans. Determining what to believe, and what to fear looms as an impossibility. World leaders rattle their sabers, as they have throughout time, and new diseases evolve resistant to current treatments. Threats and dangers come from both humanity and nature; sometimes it appears that the earth has become tired of our less-than-conscientious stewardship, and attempts to shake us off like irritating fleas.
Earthquakes and tsunamis have occurred throughout recorded history, yet now it seems a catastrophic event will shake the very foundations of the earth. Fissures in the ground will shake and usher in tidal waves and fires, destroying both people and what we have built.
Current events appear as a grab bag of horrors, and time seems to grow short. The Bible teaches that no one knows when the end will come, and to not fear. Facing the future with trepidation will not grant one more moment, and destroy the personal peace which can exist in the present.
O God, who hast established the earth upon firm foundations, graciously receive the prayers of Thy people: and, having utterly removed the dangers of the shaken earth, turn the terrors of Thy divine wrath into the means of the salvation of mankind; that they who are of the earth, and unto earth shall return, may rejoice to find themselves citizens of heaven by means of a holy life. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Contributed by Carol
Monday April 7, 2014
Liturgical Year A: Week 19
Liturgical Color: White
Sunday Gospel reading:
Fifth Sunday in Lent