Matthew 24:1-8
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
Today we begin listening in as Jesus discloses future events to his disciples. Read Matthew 24:1-8 keeping in mind the grief Jesus just expressed over the failure of Israel’s leaders to turn to him.
For the Israelites, the temple was more than just a building complex, it was the center of their lives. It was here that they came to worship and be in the presence of God, and it was here that the laws that governed their lives were taught and acted upon. And this particular temple, (not the original temple from Older Testament times but a newer version built by Herod the Great) was magnificent to see. First century sources describe the temple as being resplendent with pure gold and snow-white marble. It was a structure that inspired awe. But as we have seen throughout the woes pronounced by Jesus over the religious authorities, this symbol of God’s presence had become an empty shell.
In the year 70AD, this temple would be set afire and disassembled stone by stone by an invading army.
Take a moment to think about the human tendency to create and rely on structures (e.g. physical structures, structures of government, places of worship, religious structures). In many ways this tendency stems from the image of God in humans because God is a God of order, creativity, and beauty. But when the structures become more important than the purpose for which they were created, we can end up worshipping empty shells rather than the God who created us.
Sit with this for a moment and share your thoughts with Jesus.
Read Matthew 24:1-8 again noticing any questions or thoughts that arise as you read.
For the last minutes of this meditation, get still in the presence of Jesus and focus in on two key phrases in his prophetic declaration:
“Don’t let anyone mislead you…”
How are you allowing Jesus to be your “true north”?
“…don’t panic.”
What are you doing on a regular basis to center yourself on Jesus so that you remain centered in him through all circumstances?
Is there anything Jesus would like you to do as a result of today’s time of reflection?
Will you do that?
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