Oooo, Big Rocks

Mark 13:1-8

Nothing lasts forever.

I just wanted to get that out of the way before I begin.

As much as there are some things we would like to last forever, I apologize for having to be the one to let you know, it isn't going to happen. This doesn't mean we should just stop hoping because there's no chance. All I'm saying is things won't last forever.

Well, almost nothing. There's always an exception to the rule.

As Jesus comes out of the temple, where they had just witnessed the widow giving everything she had, his followers marvel over the beauty of that temple. "What big stones, the buildings are so large." Jesus, in my opinion, sees how his students just aren't getting the message and decides to take a different tack - shock and awe.

"Yeah, those are beautiful rocks, but one day it will all be rubble and dust. In fact, one day none of this is going to be here."

Whoa! Imagine if someone told you that the things which symbolize the good things in this world for you were someday not going to exist. What would be your reaction? Let's be honest here, just how long will the things which give you comfort in your status in life last?

I really don't like ending the week on this note, but I think we need to take a step back this weekend (which is the weekend before Thanksgiving, by the way) and take a look at what we consider to be defining our lives. When we've identified those things my hope is that we'll understand what Jesus meant when he said, "This is but the beginning of birthpangs."