A city with a very colorful history is Jerusalem. It is the holiest city for the Jews because of the TEMPLE; it is the holiest city for Christians because of The Christ Crucifixion; it is the third holiest city for the Muslims because of the Dome of the Rock. Yet, it has a very bloody history. So many people died in the name of God.

As I speak, there is trouble again in Jerusalem. Why? The USA is in the process of moving its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. With Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, there is so much controversy about the land, especially when the Jews annexed East Jerusalem from Jordan in the 1967 war. With this trouble in Jerusalem comes the part of the many end-times scenarios.

Jesus told his disciples and is telling us that while the world will all come to an end, we do not know the time nor the day nor the hour. Hence, the best way to deal with this reality is “life goes on” but with vigilance.

How do we be vigilant?

1. Being a Blessing to our Neighbor. In the end, the basis for judgment is what have you done to the least of your brethren? When I was hungry, did you give me something to eat? When I was thirsty, did you give me something to drink? While this generation is the me-generation, the Word of God is clear, it is about what we do to others, especially those who have less in life.
2. Faithfulness to our Mission on Earth. God has given us a purpose, a mission here on earth – our calling. Let us remain faithful to this mission, purpose or calling. When we are faithful, we find meaning and purpose in life because this is the very reason why we are here in this world in the first place. Otherwise, we become restless and try to find meaning and happiness even in the wrong persons and in the wrong places. Further, we also waste precious time.
3. Live with God. As human beings, we are body and soul. In this life, there is the seen and the unseen. While we take care of our bodies, do not abandon the soul. We may not see it but there are so many blessings in going to Mass, receiving Jesus in communion; praying the rosary and praying for others; acts of kindness; almsgiving and fasting.

How many people live today with anxiety, worry, and fear? Why fear, worry and be anxious about everything that is happening when we cannot control all of these in the first place? That is why we continue to put our trust in God – He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.