Tuesday of Week 34 Year 1

Some of us may have watched several movies concerning the end of the world, and some have become so paranoid, that they begin to make extensive preparations for it, especially preparations like surviving a nuclear attack, or the disintegration of society due to some major disaster. Some even become influenced by certain doomsday groups, who claim to know when the world is going to end, and even trick people into parting with their wealth, property and other possessions. But what sort of attitude should a Christian have towards the end of the world?

In today's Gospel, Jesus cautions us: "‘Take care not to be deceived,’ he said ‘because many will come using my name and saying, “I am he” and, “The time is near at hand.” Refuse to join them. And when you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be frightened, for this is something that must happen but the end is not so soon.’ Then he said to them, ‘Nation will fight against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes and plagues and famines here and there; there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven.’"

What Jesus is telling us is not to be so easily duped or taken for a ride by those so called persons who claim to know when the world would end. This is because, as Christians, we should know our bible and if we know our bible, then we should know that Jesus Himself said that no one except God the Father knows when the end will be. Also, if we really trust God, should the end of the world come, there is no reason to fear or panic, because we have God to care for us. Moreover, we should not be lazy and think that by simply being counted or following such doomsday groups, we would be spared of the trials that accompany the coming of the end. Instead, we should focus in building a good relationship with God and with others, so that no matter what happens, God will be our providence. So let us not allow ourselves to be so easily deceived, and continue to have hope and trust in our loving God, as He is our everything and our guide.