Mark 13:1-13 (Gospel Reading for Sunday November 15th)
As you probably know, at this time of the year, the Common Lectionary takes us into a Last Days theme. Jesus has quite a bit to say on this topic and indeed, this passage is recorded in triplicate in Mt Mk and Lk.
Can I have a go at paraphrasing this account to highlight some of my observations, incorporate a bit more of the tension of the moment and annotate it with some important contextual points?
Jesus leaves the temple … Mark makes it sound matter of fact, but here we are in the midst of Holy Week. Jesus earlier went to the temple just to observe, then came back the next day to clear the temple of all its garbage. Now he knows inwardly that he is (humanly speaking), leaving this impressive house of God for the last time, never to physically set foot in it again. Surely his emotions would have been running high. The disciples (just like us?) oblivious to this, make what could be viewed as a very casual comment after the manner of a tourist – “What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!” Jesus responds … you blokes have just got no idea! You make it sound like this building itself can provide you with a permanent secure haven. Open your eyes you whackers! Things of this world will all eventually disappear. Don’t get sucked in by these things despite how attractive they may seem to you at the time. Put your trust in me … that is the only thing that will count in the end!
For Lutheran Schools, 2009 will possibly go down as the year of Kev’s money! The daringly bold plan of the Rudd Government stimulus package has given us a HUGE windfall to enable the building of much needed facilities and the implementation of a range of school improvements. This passage serves us with a timely reminder … all praise and glory be to God!
Nev
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