Mark 13 Reflection by John H
Mark 13: 1-13
Let's not get carried away with the religious paraphernalia. Herod's temple was reputed to be one of the world's most beautiful buildings, but Jesus’ reaction suggests God is not interested in its magnificence.
More importantly, we need to be certain of what our faith means; even if there are alarming threats or opposition. These can be like "birth pains", i.e. sufferings that precede new life.
Be patient, God often isn't in the hurry we are.
In the meantime, don't worry or be panicked by our circumstances. Speak and be led by the Holy Spirit. "Stand firm to the end" (vs 13), even if we're betrayed by those who are close to us. At some undefined point, new birth will happen so that justice, peace, mercy and truth will flourish.
Mark 13:14
To end my reflection, verses 14 signifies there may be times to flee oppression/injustice rather than stand up to it. We must be alert, keep watch and awake, not complacent. Only God knows the timetable of events. Where human organisations oppress us unjustly, there may be a place for us to warn and denounce, but also for us to get out. Let’s also pray for those who currently face such dilemmas and persecution.
Mark 13: 1-13
Let's not get carried away with the religious paraphernalia. Herod's temple was reputed to be one of the world's most beautiful buildings, but Jesus’ reaction suggests God is not interested in its magnificence.
More importantly, we need to be certain of what our faith means; even if there are alarming threats or opposition. These can be like "birth pains", i.e. sufferings that precede new life.
Be patient, God often isn't in the hurry we are.
In the meantime, don't worry or be panicked by our circumstances. Speak and be led by the Holy Spirit. "Stand firm to the end" (vs 13), even if we're betrayed by those who are close to us. At some undefined point, new birth will happen so that justice, peace, mercy and truth will flourish.
Mark 13:14
To end my reflection, verses 14 signifies there may be times to flee oppression/injustice rather than stand up to it. We must be alert, keep watch and awake, not complacent. Only God knows the timetable of events. Where human organisations oppress us unjustly, there may be a place for us to warn and denounce, but also for us to get out. Let’s also pray for those who currently face such dilemmas and persecution.
