Pentecost 25B (Lectionary 33)
November 14, 2021
Good Shepherd, Wells, MN
Mark 13.1-8
A number of years ago, Cindy and I were invited to a local restaurant for a “free” meal, which was to include a “presentation.” In other words, a sales pitch. Cindy was smart and declined to go, but I can’t turn down a free meal and so I went even though it wasn’t free. The presentation included a scary and graphic movie that was intended to encourage you to buy a fire alarm system for your home. By the end of the night I was convinced we needed one. Fortunately, a cooler head prevailed and I realized I’d almost been manipulated into buying something we really didn’t need.
Now, protecting against fires is a good thing, but I can’t help thinking of Jesus’ words, “Beware that no one leads you astray. Many will come in my name and say, “I am he!” and they will lead you astray.” Today’s Gospel contains the opening verses of what is called Mark’s “Little Apocalypse,” teaching of Jesus to his followers about the end times. For Mark it’s Jesus’ “Farewell Address.” He is preparing them and us for life following his crucifixion, death, and resurrection.
Most scholars believe that Mark collected these stories about Jesus and wrote them down after the temple was indeed destroyed just as Jesus predicted. This happened in 70 CE following an ill-conceived Jewish insurrection against the Roman occupying forces. They also believe (and I agree) that Mark was trying to help his community come to grips with serious events. It’s 50 years after Jesus’ resurrection, he hasn’t returned, and life is chaotic. If the social, political, and religious turmoil weren’t enough, Christians were fighting themselves with many claiming to speak in Jesus’ name.
We may not be obsessed with the end times (though there are Christians who are) nor with Jesus’ return (though there are some who insist on finding out). But we do live in chaotic, challenging, and uncertain times with voices competing for our attention. We are in yet another wave of a pandemic that doesn’t seem to be letting up, prices are rising faster than our paychecks, people are shooting and being shot in record numbers. So, we look around for something to hold onto, such as political parties, financial advisors, clubs and the like.
Now, getting involved in our political process, joining a helping organization, and managing your money wisely are good things to do, but they cannot nor will they save us from the chaos that surrounds us. As pastor and public theologian David Lose reminds us, “the Christian faith does not offer an end to uncertainty or insecurity.” Rather, it roots us in the One who gives us our identity as God’s beloved children. Therefore, Lose says, “the antidote to uncertainty, it turns out, isn’t certainty, but courage.”
I’ll still wear a mask, get vaccinated, have working smoke detectors, and invest wisely, but I won’t do it out of fear. Instead, I’ll do it with the assurance that God holds all things in God’s hands. Knowing that God has secured our future frees us to live today, to enjoy what God gives us. Perhaps it is better to say “Be aware” than “beware” so you distinguish the helpful voices from the ones that will lead you astray. May the words of the crucified and risen Christ strengthen you today and always. Amen.
For the video of the worship service including the sermon click here.
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