2 Peter 3:11-15, 17-18 / Mark 12:13-17 (2020)
In a way we can say that we are very lax and complacent with regards to our safety.
We would consider wearing the safety belts in the car, crash helmets when riding a motorcycle or even a bicycle, a hassle rather than as a means of protecting our ourselves.
Yes we would not fear until we see danger right in the eye and then the chilling fear runs up our spine. But would that be too late?
Similarly we do not fear death. We may attended numerous funerals of loved ones and friends, but yet the coldness of death won't hit us until we are grasping for life. But then again, would it be too late?
Even when we hear in the 1st reading about the sky dissolving in flames and the elements melt in the heat, would we jump up and start confessing our sins and repenting of our evil deeds?
We may be thinking - All this will happen, but not soon. (Maybe not even in my life-time!)
But the 1st reading warns us: Think of our Lord's patience as your opportunity to be saved.
We must always remember that our time on earth is short. As the Psalm would say - our lifespan is seventy years, and eighty for those who are strong.
Kingdoms have come and gone, Caesar has come and gone, generals and geniuses have come and gone.
We too will go, and when we go, let us pray that we will go back to God. Let us not be lax and complacent about our salvation. Let us get serious on it now.