What Should We Make of Our Messed-Up World? – November 1, 2024

Jesus said to them: “Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and will deceive many. When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains. “You must be on your guard. You will be handed over to the local councils and flogged in the synagogues. On account of me you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them. And the gospel must first be preached to all nations. Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.”
Mark 13:5-11

What Should We Make of Our Messed-Up World?

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

There are lots of great things about life in this world. Beautiful weather. Amazing technology. Singing and music. Fun vacations. Good friends. Loving families. But we don’t have to live here too long to see that things are pretty messed up. We hear people arguing about which religion is best. We see news stories about wars that are happening. We read about tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, and fires that wreck things and injure people. We experience accidents. We suffer loss. Sometimes, we get made fun of for our faith or at least fear that we will. Sometimes, those who stand up for Jesus and his Word get abused. What should we make of all of it? What should we do? When things get bad, Jesus says, “Don’t be afraid.”

Really! Can we trust Jesus?

Jesus says and proves that we can. He did everything he said he would do. He came to our world because he loves it. He laid down his life to save it. He took his life back up in his resurrection from the dead. He fulfilled all his Word out of love for us. He rescued and made us his own in baptism. That loving Savior lives and reigns. He controls and rules the world for the good of his people. So, when all the bad things happen, he simply says, “Don’t be afraid.” Those things are proof and signs that I’m coming back as promised. And then he gives us something to do while we wait. He gives us the good news of Jesus to tell others who need to hear his gospel.

Not everybody wants to hear it, so they sometimes try to stop God’s people from speaking his gospel. Jesus’ words to his people who suffer for speaking his gospel. “Don’t worry.” He tells us to focus on him and his promises, and he’ll give us the strength and words to speak in his name.

So, what should we make of our messed-up world? It should make us look for Jesus and welcome his arrival to take us out of it.

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, help me to take your words to heart. Help me to be unafraid when bad things happen. Help me to always look for your coming with joy. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

• What makes you afraid when you think of life in this world?
• What does Jesus tell us we can think about when we’re afraid?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Name as many disturbing things that Jesus said we can expect to see and experience in this world before his return.
• What promise does Jesus give us when we’re afraid to speak his truth? (hint: verse 11)

Questions for Middle School and Above

• True or False. Based on today’s devotion, there will be a spiritual revival around the world before Jesus returns.
• Discuss with your family whether today’s devotion gives you a sense of urgency. If so, to do what and why? Then pray about it.