As I was reading this passage recently, I tried to think of how many courses I have taken on the “end times.” I think between undergraduate and seminary courses, I have had at least four different classes dedicated to the subject. What I have learned from all of these hours…is that I really don’t know what is going to happen in the “end times.” What I do know is that the church is taken up out of this world, it gets very scary on earth, and then Jesus comes back to make it right. In fact, that is what he says in our reading: 

19“For those days will be a time of tribulation such as has not occurred since the beginning of the creation which God created until now, and never will. 20“Unless the Lord had shortened those days, no life would have been saved; but for the sake of the elect, whom He chose, He shortened the days…26“Then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. 

Mark 13:19-20, 26 (NASB95)

Now here is how the Lord applied this in my heart. 

  • Things in this world are not easy. In fact, they are really, really difficult. 
  • Even in the midst of the darkest days, God graciously controls the darkness so that it is not completely overwhelming. 
  • No matter how difficult things get, the darkness doesn’t get the last word. 

That’s right! As a way of comforting his followers as they considered the darkness, He reminded them that He was coming soon. 

As you and I look about the world today, let’s remember, Jesus is coming soon. He is not unaware or unconcerned about our plight. He is not only aware and concerned but He is powerful to do something about the darkness.  Further, He is not only aware, concerned and powerful, but He is coming again to make it right. 

Be encouraged church…and on the days that seem overwhelming, look to the sky and get ready. He’s coming soon. 

This devotional originally appeared as part of the e-connect series at Englewood Baptist Church, Rocky Mount, NC