MARK 13:24–27
THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN
Text – Mark 13:24–27
24 “But in those days after that tribulation the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light,
25 and the stars will be falling from the sky, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.
26 And then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in the clouds’ with great power and glory,
27 and then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth to the end of the sky.”
Historical and Jewish Context
Apocalyptic language filled with cosmic imagery was familiar in Jewish writings, such as in Isaiah (13:10) and Joel (2:10, 31). These images—darkened sun, falling stars, and trembling heavens—symbolize divine intervention and judgment, not merely natural catastrophes. After the destruction of Jerusalem, such language described God’s decisive act in history. The “Son of Man” reference recalls Daniel 7:13–14, where a heavenly figure receives authority from God over all nations. For early Christians, this prophecy pointed both to the fall of Jerusalem as divine judgment and to Christ’s glorious second coming at the end of time.
Catholic Theological Perspective
The Church sees this passage as the promise of Christ’s ultimate triumph. The darkening of celestial bodies signifies the end of the old order, while the appearance of the “Son of Man” reveals the beginning of God’s eternal reign. Jesus will return in glory, not in humility as at His first coming. The gathering of the elect signifies the resurrection of the righteous and the fulfillment of salvation history. This event expresses God’s fidelity to His covenant people—He will not abandon those who remained steadfast. The Catechism (CCC 1040–1042) teaches that Christ’s coming in glory will bring the final judgment and renewal of creation, when the faithful will share fully in His kingdom.
Parallels in Scripture
Daniel 7:13–14 – The “Son of Man” coming with the clouds of heaven, receiving everlasting dominion.
Matthew 24:29–31 – A parallel account describing the same cosmic signs and the gathering of the elect by angels.
Luke 21:25–28 – Adds encouragement: “When these things begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads, because your redemption is at hand.”
1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 – St. Paul describes believers being gathered to meet the Lord at His coming.
Revelation 1:7 – “Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him.”
Key Terms
Son of Man – A Messianic title emphasizing Jesus’ divine authority and humanity as the one who will judge and redeem.
Coming in the Clouds – Symbol of divine majesty and presence, revealing Jesus’ heavenly origin.
Elect – God’s faithful people gathered from all nations, representing the universal Church.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage is proclaimed near the close of the liturgical year and during Advent, focusing on Christ’s second coming. It invites believers to live in readiness, faith, and hope. The Church emphasizes not fear but joyful expectation—“Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus.” In every Mass, Catholics proclaim this mystery: “We proclaim your death, O Lord, and profess your Resurrection until you come again.”
Conclusion
The darkening of the sun and stars does not signal despair but the dawn of divine victory. Jesus, the Son of Man, will return with power and glory to gather His faithful into eternal life. What appears as the collapse of the world is, in truth, the revelation of God’s kingdom. For believers, this is not the end but the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Reflection
Amid the uncertainties of life, we are called to lift our eyes to heaven and trust in Christ’s return. His coming is not to be dreaded but awaited with faith and longing. Each act of love and fidelity prepares us for that glorious day when He gathers His chosen ones into His everlasting light.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, King of Glory, strengthen our faith as we await Your coming. Dispel the darkness of sin and fear from our hearts. Gather us, Your chosen people, into the light of Your eternal kingdom, where You live and reign forever and ever. Amen.