In His Hand

A fire-and-brimstone preacher was delivering a sermon on the end of the world,

“Reform your lives,” he boomed, “because when you least expect it the signs of the Endtime could appear in the sun and the moon and the stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish, distraught at the roaring of the sea and waves. Men will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming on the earth. The very heavens will be shaken.” Then, lowering his voice, he said, “God hasn’t told us exactly when He will bring the world to an end, that is not for us to know. It could be a billion years from now.” Whereupon, an anxious voice rang out from the rear of the Church, “How long did you say?” “It could be a billion years,” the preacher repeated. “Thank God,” said the much relieved voice, “I thought you said a million years.”

Those who listened to Jesus’ frightening discourse contained in today’s Gospel Lesson, must…