This Sunday’s Gospel, according to the evangelist Mark, is considered the last teaching of Jesus before the drama of the Passion unfolds. With last teachings, they are more often revelatory and poignant. True to scriptural language in general, and Markan literature in particular, the language is highly visual, allegory in nature “the sun will be darkened, the moon will lose its brightness, the stars will come falling from heaven and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.”
I wonder how readers feel about this text. Readers of the first century would have grasped this text differently. The promise of Christ’s return was expected to be fulfilled within their lifetime. Would it cause panic for those who may feel unprepared? For others, during a time of persecution, the feeling would have been different; some would say it couldn’t come soon enough. Save us, deliver us from this situation.
On the other hand, for modern day readers, they can take a more relaxed attitude, given our understanding of the text and the context has evolved. But should we? We are encouraged to “keep awake” as to be ready. Once again, the language is familiar: the fig tree and the employee and owner. One speaks to the gardener to signal the arrival of summer and the other to someone entrusted to take care of the owner’s business to signal their return.
The text offers us hope. The return of Christ is already here, but not yet. Those seeking the return of Christ right now to deliver us from the challenging situation we find ourselves in. Deliver us from this state of hopelessness, fear and anxiety. The Aramaic phrase “Maranatha” comes to mind. “O Lord, come!” or “Our Lord has come”.
There is much hope in the text. The arrival of summer means fruit is ready to be enjoyed. The return of the owner is to give the employee a reward for a job well done. Let’s be motivated by who is to come and be ready!
By Fr Hoang Dinh
Published: 15 November 2024
