Twenty-Third Sunday after Pentecost
Where Security Is
Jesus was watching the events and the activities at the temple. He listened to the people talking about its beauty and its meaning as the dwelling place of God on earth. Most people also saw the temple as a symbol of security. They remembered the stories their foreparents told about the exodus, and they believed that this security would be on their side as well. Certainly God would not allow something as beautiful as the temple to be damaged. Jesus, however, warned of its destruction (Luke 21:6).
Jesus pointed out that it was not the temple itself which is of value, much less a symbol of security. Rather, the security is found in a divine connection that resides within each person, a connection that will bring believers through difficult circumstances.
The people asked for a sign indicating that the end would be near. Jesus listed events that were and are happening all the time: wars and rumors of wars. There would be false messiahs who would call attention to themselves as having the key to a secure future. There would be political turmoil. Indeed, there would be natural events that might cause you to believe that the end of the world is happening soon, and even family structure could be troubling.
Today as in biblical times, Jesus calls his followers not to retreat, but rather to be bold and share our faith. Indeed, our faith will bring us through the trouble. Jesus reminds us that we don’t need to plan ahead for what we will say, for the words will come to us as they are needed. Our strength resides within ourselves, and it is found within.
“By your endurance you will gain your souls” (Luke 21:19).
David Wickmann, retired pastor
Nazareth, Pennsylvania