Read the Modern Pastor’s Version

He looked up and saw the wealthy men casting their offerings into the treasury. But then he also noticed a poor widow who was quietly placing two small coins into the collection box. Jesus pointed out this contrast: "Look at what you've seen here today," he said. "The wealthy have given generously, but they still had plenty left over. This poor widow, however, has given everything she had to live on – every last coin from her poverty-stricken life.

People were impressed with the temple's beauty and grandeur, admiring its intricate stones and decorations. But Jesus warned them, "The days are coming when not a single stone will remain standing on another. It will all be torn down."

As they marveled at the temple's splendor, someone asked, "But Master, when will this happen? What signs can we look for?" Jesus cautioned them, "Be careful – many impostors will come claiming to be me, and their arrival means my return is drawing near. Don't follow them!"

When you hear about wars and uprisings, don't panic; they're inevitable before the end comes. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdoms will collide. There will be devastating earthquakes in various places, famines, and epidemics. You'll witness terrifying events and supernatural signs from heaven.

But even with all this chaos, you can expect persecution. They'll take you to court, bring you before synagogues and prisons, and question you about your faith in my name. Some of you will be betrayed by family members or close friends – and yes, some of you may even lose your lives.

Despite the hardships, remember that not a single hair on your head will fall without God's knowledge. You'll persevere, and in doing so, preserve your lives. When Jerusalem is surrounded by armies, know that its downfall is near. Warn those living there to flee to the mountains – but don't let outsiders get caught in the crossfire.

These are the days of reckoning, when everything written will be fulfilled. Misfortune awaits pregnant women and nursing mothers during this time; great distress and wrath will grip the land and my people. Many will fall by the sword or be taken captive into foreign lands – Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot until its appointed time.

As the world teeters on the brink of chaos, you'll see signs in the sun, moon, and stars – and there will be fear and confusion among nations as they struggle to make sense of it all. People's hearts will fail them with dread and anxiety as they wait for these events to unfold.

But then, just when everything seems darkest, they'll see me coming on a cloud, surrounded by power and glory. When you begin to see these things happening, lift your heads because redemption is near.

Jesus told a parable: "Look at the fig tree – when its branches start growing new leaves, you know summer is just around the corner. Watch for similar signs – when you see them happen, you'll know my kingdom is near."

Most certainly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until every prophecy is fulfilled. Heaven and earth may disappear, but my words will never fade. So be vigilant, lest your hearts become weighed down by indulgence, drunkenness, and worries about everyday life – before you even realize it, that day will catch you off guard.

Be careful! The world's darkness can sneak up on you like a trap, ensnaring all who live on earth. Stay awake and pray constantly.

Day after day, Jesus taught in the temple, but at night he would slip away to the Mount of Olives. Early each morning, crowds of people would gather around him, eager to hear his words.