Advent Hope Amidst Worldly Turmoil

Mark 13:24-37

Father Mark addresses the concept of apocalyptic predictions, referencing figures like Martin Luther and Christopher Columbus who foretold the end of the world. He clarifies that the term 'apocalypse' originally meant revealing hidden truths, especially God's love in dark times, rather than world-ending events. Father Mark relates this to the Gospel of Mark, written during the tumultuous Jewish-Roman war, suggesting that the gospel's apocalyptic passages offered hope amidst despair.

Father Mark then draws parallels to modern challenges such as climate change and political strife, likening these to the symbolic upheavals described in the gospel. He concludes with an Advent message of hope, urging the congregation to stay alert to Christ's hidden coming and participate in God's transformative work on earth.

The world of our childhood is shaking and crumbling beneath us.

Despite current turmoil and changes in the world and the church, he reassures that Jesus and his teachings remain a constant, guiding force for a hopeful future.

Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.