Scripture: Luke 21:9 (NRSV) — “Do not be terrified; for these things must take place first, but the end will not follow immediately.”
Reflection:
Jesus addresses fear with a broad, soothing perspective. He isn’t ignoring the real struggles of the world; he’s changing how we see them. “This isn’t the end,” he says. “Don’t let fear convince you otherwise.” Too often, we see struggle as the final word. We sense chaos and assume something is dying that can’t be saved.
But Jesus redefines the moment. He reminds us that God’s work doesn’t fall apart under pressure; it often begins there. Pain isn’t always a sign of destruction; sometimes it’s the start of something new. In God’s relational, co-creative future, growth almost always happens in ways we couldn’t predict or control.
This is hope: not that everything is perfect, but that everything is held.
Application:
Practice a 60-second breath prayer today: “God, this is not the end. Help me trust your unfolding.”
Writing Prompt:
When have you thought a situation was “the end,” only to find out later that something new was emerging?
Prayer:
God of the long story, remind me that my fear is not the author of my future. Keep me open to what you’re growing even now. Amen.