While some people were speaking about
how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings,
Jesus said, “All that you see here?
the days will come when there will not be left
a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.”
Then they asked him,
“Teacher, when will this happen?
And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?”
He answered,
“See that you not be deceived,
for many will come in my name, saying,
‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’
Do not follow them!
When you hear of wars and insurrections,
do not be terrified; for such things must happen first,
but it will not immediately be the end.”
Then he said to them,
“Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.
There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues
from place to place;
and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.” (Lk 21:5-11)
One of the things that people have engaged in throughout the years is speculation regarding the end of the world.
I remember, growing up, serious belief that the world was going to come to an end several different times.
The “proof” was always given because of “signs”: natural disasters, war brewing, interpretations of scripture, et cetera.
We are obsessed with the end of the world.
We fear the end of the world.
We do everything except prepare for the end of the world.
It is inevitable.
But, it is something that does not need to be feared — if we live in preparation each day of our lives. That’s right. If we are prepared today, right now, for the world to come to an end, there should be no fear. We would have done the spiritual preparation we need. We would be ready to greet our Lord in joy, not in panic.
We reflect upon “the end” because the Church year draws to a close in a few days. The new year begins this Sunday with the First Sunday of Advent. And what does the new year begin by saying?
Prepare!
FAITH ACTION: Are you doing everything necessary to greet our Lord when He returns in triumph? Be prepared. Do a good work of mercy for someone today.