Mark 13:26-27
And then they will see 'the Son of Man coming in the clouds' vwith great power and glory, and then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth to the end of the sky.
Readings for Sunday: Daniel, Hebrews, Mark
Reflection:
The Sunday Gospel from Mark 13:24-32 is a powerful reminder that life as we know it is temporary. Jesus tells us, “The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light,” evoking an image of the world winding down, like the fading light at the end of a day. These words might stir unease, but Jesus doesn’t speak of the end to frighten us. Rather, He invites us to live with intention, aware that each day is a gift and an opportunity to prepare for eternity.
As we age, we feel time’s passing more keenly. The energy and seeming endlessness of youth give way to a more sober awareness of life’s limits. Just as the days shorten in fall, we begin to recognize that one day we, too, will stand before Christ. Yet, Jesus tells us that no one knows the “day or the hour”—only the Father.
This mystery invites us to live not in fear but in readiness, grounded in a love that outlasts everything else. Christ’s words endure when all else fades, and they anchor us in His promise of mercy and faithfulness.
So, how do we live as people who are truly awake? Jesus calls us to be disciples, not someday in the distant future, but now. If we were to imagine that our time was running out, how would we love, forgive, and prioritize the people and practices that bring us closer to Him? We’re urged to seek His mercy, to renew our commitment to His love, and to live each day with the hope of meeting Him face-to-face. When we choose this life of faithfulness, we anchor ourselves in a truth and a love that truly never pass away.
Reflection Questions
- In your prayer, ask: Am I truly living with a heart open to Christ’s love and mercy, or am I distracted by the temporary things around me? How can I invite Jesus into the parts of my life where I feel distant from Him?
- Reflect on this: If I knew today was my last day, what would I wish I had done differently in my relationships—with God, with others, and with myself? What steps can I take now to begin living that way?
- Consider in quiet reflection: Am I spiritually prepared for the unknown? How can I live each day with a sense of purpose and readiness, trusting that my relationship with Christ will guide me through both life’s endings and new beginnings?