Signs of the times: False prophets, offendedness, and hatred

As Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives, his disciples came to him privately and asked: “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” (Matthew 24:3 NABRE)

These verses here fit far too uncomfortably with the recent climate:

And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. But he who endures to the end shall be saved.

Matthew 24:10-13 (NABRE)

It is important that we endure these times. It will mean knowing of many evils and experiencing the accompanying thoughts and feelings which can be very difficult.

To endure means to suffer patiently, remembering that there is an end to all suffering. This is all temporary and the mortal power of evil is nothing when compared to the glory of eternity.

Today, offense, betrayal, and hatred are being promoted by false prophets in the media, politics, and business to divide each of us for profit, gain, and power.

They will not stop, but we don’t have to play into their influences.

The warmth of our love can increase, just laws can be sustained, true prophets heeded, love for one another strengthened, faithfulness increased, while forgiveness and understanding reign.

Zion begins in our hearts.