Matthew 24, 25

January 11, 2011

Matthew 24, 25

Overview:  Jesus speaking with his disciples about matters related to the end of time.

Jesus uses some apocalyptic language to speak about the end of times, but explicitly instructs that he is not issuing a road map and that "about that day and hour no one knows"(24:36)  While Jesus seems disinclined to have us reading tea leaves to determine the precise date and time of his return, he seems very concerned with how we live our lives in the meantime.  There are a series of parables here about living as though the Son of Man (a bridegroom, a man gone on a journey) could return at any moment.  In the event of that return those who have been left behind (bridesmaids, workers) are expected to be living towards the expected return of the one they are anticipating.  Not putting in time and waiting, but actively readying themselves.  Keeping awake.
This is culminated by Jesus teaching in Matthew 25 about the final judgment.  Our every interaction matters.  Our every interaction is potentially an interaction with our God.  An act of kindness is not something that happens in a moment and is over with, but is rather, each one, of cosmic significance. 
This theme is one of which I do not grow weary.  There are still many who are caught up in a game of determining when the end will come, of "solving" the "puzzle" of the book of Revelation by piecing together this world crisis and that tyrannical leader.  It is a rabbit hole that is not what Jesus intended for us.  There will be an end.  It will come when it comes.  In the meantime we are too live.  Live obediently.  Live faithfully.  Live as though God made the world and us and had an intention for our lives - for that is exactly what has happened and is happening.