The Signs of the End

Today's Reflections

The Signs of the End

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Lk 21:5-11

⁵While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, [Jesus] said, ⁶“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.”

⁷Then they asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?” ⁸He 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! ⁹When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end.” ¹⁰Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. ¹¹There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.”

Reflection:

Do not be terrified. The Gospel tells us that we are not living in a settled or permanent situation. All things are passing—the seasons, our world, our life. We are just on pilgrimage here on earth. Our final home is heaven, to be with God. However, the Gospel tells us that we should not be too preoccupied with the end of time. No use speculating the exact date of the end of the world. Only God knows.

As believers, we are told not to let fear paralyze our belief in God. When earthly turmoil and cosmic signs come, Jesus asks us to be firm in our faith. We should continue trusting. The end of time will mean the triumph of God and goodness.

Let us remember that our God is a loving God who wills the salvation of his people. As St. Teresa of Jesus urges us, “Let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you, all things pass away: God never changes. Patience obtains all things. He who has God finds he lacks nothing; God alone suffices.”

If the thought of the world frightens us,

it means that our life is not yet compatible with the life of Jesus.

Now is the time to change.