LEAVE A MARK -

In His private teaching to the disciples on Mt. Olive, Jesus breaks the news that He will be coming back using a patchwork of quotations and images from the Old Testament.  (Mark 13:1-37)  He warns them of the upcoming events, that we see in the fulfillment of today.  He said there will be religious deception, social and political upheaval, natural calamities, disloyalty, and persecution prior to His Second Coming.

The truth of His Second Coming has suffered from people that are obsessed with speculation of the "time" of the event and others who ignore the promise.

The first way to prepare for His Coming is not to engage in the pointless setting of dates for His return.  The truth is no one knows that day or hour (verse 32). The second way to prepare is be ready at all times for His Coming. 

Notice these verses of warning:

• "Take heed" (verse 5,33)
• "Watch out" (verses 9,23,33,35)
• "Watch" (verse 37)

Jesus wants His followers to stay alert, keep their eyes open and stay focused.  There are over 250 clear references to the Second Coming of Christ in the New Testament.

We are to be ready for Jesus' unpredictable return all the time.  There are signs to watch for, but not to become so preoccupied with them that we cease to live. The teaching of the new Testament concerning the return of Christ is not given to encourage speulation, or to excite our imagination, but to challenge the way we live here and now. 

Augustine said this, 
"He who loves the coming of the Lord is not he who affirms it is far off, 
nor is it he who says it is near;
but rather he who, whether it be far off or near, 
awaits it with sincere faith, steadfast hope and fervent love."