As one might expect, the current situation in Ukraine has caused many to fear the end of the world is upon us; others believe the “rapture” is coming at any moment. What are we to make of all the prophetic passages about these last days, how are we to make sense of it all? What does the Bible say?

In the 13th chapter of Mark, verse 21 and following, Jesus speaks of the end times in generalities, not giving specifics, but encouraging us to know that we can’t know the time of the end. We can, however, know the signs of the times that indicate that the time draws near, and we can prepare ourselves to face our God.

“But of that day and hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is.” — Mark 13:32-33 (NKJV)

It is foolish to speculate about when these things will occur; neither is it wise to spend all of our time studying for the answers to that mystery. The “day and hour” are not written in Scripture for us to find. It should be enough for us to trust that we can not know and move on toward becoming the Christian beings that we are intended to be. There is more than enough work for us to do without wasting time searching for an answer that is not for us to know. We should follow the model the young Jesus set for us and “be about My Father’s business”(Luke 2:49). That business is not to try to figure out how much time is left to work, but to work until the time is done.

We should take to heart the words of Paul in Philippians 4:6-7, and not be anxious about things over which we have no control. We must pray and allow the peace of God to rule over anxiety, worry, and fear. Ask for wisdom concerning the last days if you so desire; continuing to live in a manner pleasing to God is the best plan for being ready.

Jesus gives His disciples great advice for these troubled times; not least of which are found in verse 37 of Mark 13, “And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”

 

Rev. Bobby Thornhill is a retired Methodist preacher.