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This Gospel was written over 2,000 years ago and the world is still here so I am less convinced the readings were written to prepare us for the end times. However, many of the early Christians understood these readings as a sign pointing to the end of the world. One of the reasons why the Gospels were written so late, was because many people believed Jesus literally, and that the end of the world would take place in their lifetime.

I suspect these readings could be interpreted differently. I propose that Jesus is talking more about the trials and tribulations in our lives. Our faith in Jesus does not exempt us from struggles. Rather than seeing these as the end, Jesus invites us to see this is a time when God will show his saving power.

Could those struggles be actually helpful to our spiritual growth? Struggles encourage us to develop resilience and problem-solving skills. Struggles can lead to maturity and a perspective on life that leads to spiritual and psychological growth.

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The lesson in today’s Gospel is clear, do not get seduced by appearances! There is also a sub-theme of humility. Jesus is critical of the Scribes for their hypocritical behaviour. As Luke 12:48, states, "To whom much is given, much will be required." Jesus emphasized the idea of responsibility that comes with blessings and resources. The verse suggests that those who have been entrusted with more—whether it be talents, wealth, or knowledge—are held to a higher standard of accountability.
Jesus continues his teaching on looking beyond appearances when he is watching wealthy people putting in large sums of money into the temple treasury. On the level of appearances, the large donations would suggest that the rich deserve more while in reality it is the poor widow who gave all she had.

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In today’s Gospel Jesus is asked by a scribe, “Which commandment is the first of all?” Jesus answers his question directly. Jesus talked about loving God exclusively, with all your heart, mind and all your strength. Jesus did not leave anything out. Jesus does not stop there but teaches that we are to love our neighbor as our selves. Jesus would later go on to define his understanding of who is a neighbor in the parable of the Good Samaritan. It is not impossible to love people we admire or who love us or are similar to us. It is hard if not impossible to love those who have hurt us or have broken our trust. We must make a conscious choice to live by our own values rather than reacting to the behavior of others.

The Gospel really makes it clear that Jesus sees that loving God and loving others are intertwined. We cannot say that we love God and at the same time hate part of his creation. I would like to suggest six things that might help you become more loving.