WATCH OUT!

"But when  these things begin to happen, watch out!"  (Mark 13:9 LB)

Today's headlines are filled with all sorts of natural disasters, wars and famines.  Yet,  when they occurred in Jesus time, Jesus told His disciples these were only indicative of the "early stages of the anguish ahead."  He warned His disciples that they would be mistreated and persecuted by the religious sectors, the governmental authorities and national leaders.  He told them to look at these things as an opportunity for the Gospel, not a hindrance to it.  He assured them that "The Helper," the Holy Spirit, would be right there to give them the courage and the right words to speak.  (This promise would be first enacted after Jesus' ascension, see Acts 4: 1-31). 

As disciples of Jesus Christ today, we need also to be on the alert for there are sure signs of the "anguish ahead."  Our outlook must be for opportunity to share the Good News.  Are you watching out for your opportunities?  Think about it.