The Coming of the Son of Man – Reflection on Mark 13:24-32
According to Genesis, Earth was created in seven days. The scientist in me understands Earth seems to have formed 4.5 billion years ago and man around 6.5 million years ago. Therefore, math-wise, Genesis’s one week is roughly 700 actual years. Suns throughout our universe fade out over billions of years. Couldn’t God let our sun and earth pass away over time? Doesn’t that leave the potential of the coming of the Son of Man being an already ongoing process? We are already dealing with the false gods of worldliness, and in your life, haven’t you felt darkness and had your life shaken? Isn’t it possible that we are already part of a potentially very long gathering period from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven? You can believe that Jesus’s message of hope is already partially within you and your journey of finding and knowing Jesus in this present time.
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Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Mark 13:24-32 – Scripture*
The Coming of the Son of Man
24 “But in those days, after that suffering,
the sun will be darkened,
and the moon will not give its light,
25 and the stars will be falling from heaven,
and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.
26 Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in clouds’ with great power and glory. 27 Then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven.
The Lesson of the Fig Tree
28 “From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. 30 Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
The Necessity for Watchfulness
32 “But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this Gospel and reading this Lectio Divina on Mark 13:24-32 Reflection – The coming of the Son of Man.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections on the Gospel readings? Since Lectio is not the only contemplative prayer style, others might appreciate your expressions in this ministry. Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities experience your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite worldly distractions. Amen.
Attributions
* This site has written permission to use the New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) Bible for the passage of Mark 13.
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Primary Lectio Divina word or phrase: Son of Man
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Discussion group on St. John of the Cross.