chosen ones – Be Still…

Mark 13:24-37 – Watch for Him!

Read Mark 13:24-37

The second part of Jesus’ warning points to himself and his return. To the disciples, this must have sounded absurd. Jesus had not yet been taken from them, killed, or raised to life again. But we come at this from a different vantage point. We are the ones waiting to see Jesus coming in the clouds.

Jesus makes it clear that he will not return until after the horrendous things of our last reading take place. Here, we learn more about that rescue mission. “And he will send out his angels to gather his chosen ones from all over the world.” What a glorious promise!

Mark 13:1-23 – Jesus’ Warning

Read Mark 13:1-23

Jesus gives us so much detail in this apocalyptic passage, and it’s frightening. I don’t think Jesus meant for us to be scared, rather to be prepared. The end times are not going to be pretty. For those who will witness such things, there will be death and chaos. The promise is also there for us believers. The Holy Spirit will be with us.

I have vivid memories of being afraid of my closet as a child. I was sure there was something to fear lurking in the shadows, and the closet door had to be closed every night lest I couldn’t fall asleep. I can still hear my dad saying, “There is nothing to fear; I’ll be right across the hall.”

Zechariah 4:1-14 – A Lampstand and Two Olive Trees

Read Zechariah 4:1-14

You’re not alone if this fifth vision of Zechariah left you perplexed. It’s not only strange but hard to understand. I’m hoping we can unpack it a little and let the Holy Spirit speak to our hearts the intended message for our reflection. Even the angel’s explanation left me scratching my head.

It helps to remember that this section of the book is focusing on who is leading those exiled people now returning to Jerusalem. This vision points to the new governor, and kingly descendent, Zerubbabel. You may recall Haggai mentions Zerubbabel—now it’s Zechariah’s turn to shine the light on the leader God had chosen.