Stay Awake

“Pay attention! Be ready! Keep your head up and don’t get distracted!” These were all things that I used to yell to my players when I coached volleyball. For high school boys (really, young men) it was easy for them to lose focus in the game. They’d be looking in the stands to see who was or wasn’t there, chatting with each other, or just daydreaming! And this behaviour was even more pronounced during practices. The guys would generally start strong, but would fade the further into practice we got. It was hard to keep them on task, and it took constant reminders and encouragement to keep them focused.

This Sunday we’re going to be looking at a passage in Mark that has been the root of much confusion and even controversy in the church. Mark 13 speaks about the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, as well as the second coming of Christ. People have debated whether this is only talking about events from the 1st century or events still to come, or perhaps both. It’s a passage and topic that has divided churches and families, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Jesus is warning His disciples, and those that will come after the disciples, to be prepared for when He returns. They are to be watchful, ready, and not give up hope. Things may look bleak, but Jesus will return and make all things new. This is a message of hope and promise.

On Sunday, I may not say everything about this passage that you may want me to say. We might even disagree over some aspects of the sermon, and that’s okay. My prayer is that on the things that are of first importance — who Jesus is, what He came to do, and what He promises to do — that we will find common ground, be able to stand together watching and waiting for Jesus to return. Our gathering starts at 4 pm on Sunday. Hope to see you there!

Pastor Mike