the end of the end
"When you see these things happening, you will know that He is near, even at the door." —Mark 13:29
Immediately before the end of the world, we will have "trials of every sort" (Mk 13:24). "It shall be a time unsurpassed in distress since nations began until that time" (Dn 12:1). "Indeed, had the Lord not shortened the period, not a person would be saved. But for the sake of those He has chosen, He has shortened the days" (Mk 13:20).
We will see a mass apostasy from our Christian faith, as the "man of lawlessness," the Anti-Christ, is revealed (2 Thes 2:3). "Because of the increase of evil, the love of most will grow cold. The man who holds out to the end, however, is the one who will see salvation" (Mt 24:12-13). "At that time there shall arise Michael, the great prince, guardian of your people; it shall be a time unsurpassed in distress since nations began until that time. At that time your people shall escape, everyone who is found written in the book" (Dn 12:1). "Some shall live forever, others shall be an everlasting horror and disgrace. But the wise shall shine brightly like the splendor of the firmament, and those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever" (Dn 12:2-3). All of these things are certain and true, for Jesus has promised: "The heavens and the earth will pass away but My words will not pass" (Mk 13:31).
Repent! Live for Jesus alone! Lift up your eyes to see Jesus "coming in the clouds with great power and glory" (Mk 13:26). Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!
Prayer: Father, I want to be ready.
Promise: "Jesus offered one sacrifice for sins and took His seat forever at the right hand of God; now He waits until His enemies are placed beneath His feet." —Heb 10:12-13
Praise: Praise the risen Jesus, Who will come again in glory!
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Ralph J. Lawrence, April 24, 2000
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 27, 2000