Mark 13:1-8 (NRSV)
Read Mark 13:1-8 on biblegateway.com
Verse 3When he was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked him privately,
Verse 4"Tell us, when will this be, and what will be the sign that all these things are about to be accomplished?"
Verse 5Then Jesus began to say to them, "Beware that no one leads you astray.
Verse 6Many will come in my name and say, 'I am he!' and they will lead many astray.
Verse 7When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed; this must take place, but the end is still to come.
Verse 8For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. This is but the beginning of the birthpangs.
Devotion
I have stood at the Western Wall in Jerusalem, the last remnant of what was once a proud and glorious temple. Jesus’ prophecy was (mostly) true – almost nothing remains of the temple that once governed religious life for the Jews of the time. Just looking at the huge stones that made up only the outer retaining-wall makes you realize what an incredible building it once was and how little is now left.
We may hear Jesus’ statement about the destruction of the temple as a warning against investing in places or things. However, Jesus himself worshipped in the temple. He knew the value and worth of that place. Buildings are vital to our ministry – they are a place to gather, pray, sing, hear the word and be challenged. They are not, however, meant to be goals or idols unto themselves. When we make a place more than just a place, when it becomes something to brag about, gloat over and sink selfishness into, then it deserves to be pulled down, brick by brick.
Prayer
God, our shelter and fortress, keep us from pride. Help us to use our places of worship to glorify you and not ourselves. Amen.