Mark 13
Go Deeper
We’re currently living in a season that absolutely none of us saw coming. A few months ago, when the calendar turned to 2020, no one could have guessed how dramatically our lives would change this year. However, even though none of us could have guessed what was coming, Jesus reminds us in this passage that we should be prepared for times like these. The chapter opens with one of the disciples marveling at the large and powerful temple. Surely these stones would remain standing forever! Yet Jesus replies to His disciple by remarking that not a single one of those buildings would last. Even the sturdiest parts of our society have a shelf life.
Jesus then goes on to challenge His followers to be on guard for a whole host of potential difficulties. These are not Jesus’s most quoted or memorable words, and it’s likely because we don’t love the message. Most of us would prefer to be comforted rather than challenged. But in this season of our lives, we’re reminded that Jesus was right: in this world we will have trouble. The good news is that isn’t how the story ends. We can also trust that Jesus has overcome the world and will one day make all things right. Until that day, though, we have a job to do. We must stand firm in the faith and be on guard for whatever troubles may come our way.
Questions
What most stands out to you about this chapter?
How did you feel when reading this passage? Nervous? Surprised? Prepared?
What do you think it means to live “on guard”?
If Jesus were to come back next week, what changes would you want to make in your life in order to prepare?