Jesus predicted that the Jerusalem Temple, beautiful as it was, would be destroyed. He then went on to speak of wider turmoil among the nations, throughout the natural world, and in the heavens.
But before the end, the Day of the Lord, which will bring judgment on the evil and healing to the faithful, there will be a long period which will be marked by rejection, persecution, and even execution for faith in Christ. However, he urged perseverance to secure our eternal life.
St. Paul wrote to tell us in this waiting period, we should carry on our daily tasks and work, taking responsibility to support ourselves. That keeps disorder out of the Christian community, and leads us to a quiet life in which we can use some of our time, talent, and treasure to serve Christ and his Church.
