Paying Close Attention

“When you see the abomination of desolation standing where it ought not to be (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let the one who is on the housetop not go down, nor enter his house, to take anything out.” Mark 13:14-15 ESV

An interesting aspect of Jesus’ discourse on the Mount of Olives is this interjection: “let the reader understand.” From our perspective, it would have been easy to omit this phrase. But this interjection puts a different light on this passage. What did Jesus mean? And why is this included?

Perhaps the obvious answer is that this phrase breaks the flow, and causes us to stop and think. It would seem that this was a particular injunction to those who read this text to pay close attention to this passage, and what it meant and implied. As if Jesus knew that this was of particular importance to readers.

It particularly was important that they “understand.” The Greek word places emphasis on truly grasping what was said. Pondering the implications. Actively thinking about what He was saying.

This takes on special significance in light of events that would take place in the years following Jesus’ death. When Believers and Jews were persecuted. When the Romans, in fact, would destroy the temple and burn Jerusalem.

But this interjection is a particular reminder to all readers, of all eras. A reminder that we must not just casually read the words of the Bible but seek to truly understand them. Not to be passive observers but engage our minds and hearts. To seek God about the deeper meaning. To seek to be enlightened by the Holy Spirit. To stop and think (and pray) about each message.

When we read the Word, we must realize that it was not just given to people of Jesus’ time on earth but that its words have important implications for us. For you.

Prayer: Father, give me deeper insights into Your Word. Speak to me by Your Spirit. Open my eyes to Your Truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.