Isaiah 63: 16-17, 64: 1. 3-8
The people of Israel have returned form exile in Babylon, but Jerusalem lies in ruins. Isaiah implores God to come again as Redeemer in a manifestation even greater than on Mount Sinai.
1 Corinthians 1: 3-9
Ancient Corinth had risen from the ashes and was now an important town, but it was also a place of corruption on a vast scale. Paul extols the Christian community for their witness to God whose faithfulness will sustain them to the end.
Mark 13: 33-37
By means of a parable Jesus impresses upon his followers the need to be watchful and ready to meet God on the last day.