Living Alert in the Midst of the Storm
Have you ever been caught in a storm—physically or emotionally—without warning? Maybe a sudden diagnosis, a betrayal, a layoff, or just the crushing weight of the world closing in. InMark 13:14–27, Jesus speaks of a time when it feels like all creation is trembling and unravelling. And while this passage describes future events, it also speaks into the panic, fear, and chaos we sometimes face right now.
Jesus doesn't give this warning to terrify us. He gives it to prepare us—to keep us alert, anchored, and hopeful.
1. The Urgency of Fleeing (v.14–18)
“Let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.” (v.14)
Jesus paints a picture of great tribulation, urging people to run—not walk—to safety. It's a vivid, almost cinematic image: pregnant women scrambling, winter storms possibly slowing them down.
But what if the application isn't just physical?
There are times when we need to flee from spiritual danger too—when sin crouches at the door or temptations lure usin. Maybe it's a toxic relationship, an addiction creeping back in, or the slow erosion of our devotion to God. Jesus says: Don’t linger. Don’t delay. Run to the mountain—that is, run to Him, our Rock and Refuge.
2. The Promise of Divine Shortening (v.20)
“If the Lord had not cut short those days, no one would survive.”
This is one of the most comforting verses hidden amid chaos. God, in His mercy, shortens suffering. He knows our limits. He sees our weakness.
In your hardest seasons, when you feel like you just can’t anymore—He’s not indifferent. He is actively limiting what you’re going through for your good. Maybe that situation didn’t drag out longer because God stepped in. Maybe that “coincidence” was mercy disguised.
Let’s take heart: Our suffering may feel long, but it's always under the sovereign stopwatch of our loving Father.
3. The Warning Against Deception (v.21–23)
“If anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Messiah!’ or, ‘Look, there he is!’ do not believe it.”
Hard times are fertile ground for false hopes.
Jesus warns us that in chaos, many will come pretending to offer salvation—spiritual or otherwise. The world whispers false gospels: “Success will save you.” “Romance will complete you.”“Control will protect you.” But they’re illusions.
Only Christ crucified, risen, and returning can carry us through. In your doubts and darkness, don’t follow every flicker of light—follow the One true Light who already walked through death for you.
4. The Hope of His Coming (v.24–27)
“Then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory.”
This is the climax. The sky tears open, and Christ appears—not as a gentle teacher or suffering servant, but as King and Judge, coming for His own. And you know what’s beautiful?
He knows who you are. He sends angels to gather His elect. That means you’re not forgotten in the crowd. You’re not just a number in the universe. If you belong to Christ, He will come for you—personally, unmistakably, triumphantly.
So How Should We Live Today?
Be ready. Life is unpredictable, but God’s promises are sure. Stay close to Him.
Be watchful. Don’t get lulled into spiritual sleep or worldly distractions.
Be anchored. In chaos, cling to the Cross—the unshakeable proof that He loves you and is coming back.
May we live alert, with hearts fixed on the hope of His return and lives shaped by His grace.In Christ,
Dr. Andrew Teo
Vice Principal
