Our gospel reading today gives us some apocalyptic images of the end to come. And while I did consider sharing a reflection on these images and their implications, something stirred me inside - that is, the references to Noah and Lot.
When we read or hear the word of God proclaimed, it is appropriate to also consider the "outside" figures in the story that are referenced. How well do you know the story of Noah? Of course, you will say he was the one that built the ark. But did you know that he was a descendant of Seth, the third child of Adam and Eve. Which makes one ponder on his actions and how, in his own way, the story of the ark is one that has its roots in the result of his ancestors Adam and Eve eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. If you can, read Genesis chapters 5-9.
Lot was the nephew of Abram, who was later renamed by God as Abraham. We read of him in Genesis 11-14 and then again in chapter 19. Lot's story is one of family ties, of commitment to God, of honour, of greed, and of course, being one of the few just people who are saved before the city of Sodom is destroyed by God.
Today I am committing myself to once again reading and reflecting on their stories. For to really appreciate what Jesus shares in today's gospel, we need to know the background.
I urge you, dear reader, to try to commit yourself today to reading either the story of Noah or Lot. And you'll get "extra brownie points" if you read both. For both stories are fascinating. And both stories have much to teach us.