Mk 13:24-32 Jesus talks about the end times. What did he mean?

Send us Fan MailThis 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.  Complete our 1 Minute Survey