In Job 24 Job observes that there is evil in this world and that people suffer. He questions whether God hears the prayers of the poor and needy. This brings up the theological concept called “theodicy,” which deals with the presence of evil in the world. It asks the question: if God is so loving then why is there pain, suffering and evil? Job who knows he is innocent and does not deserve the situation he is in identifies with all those who are in a like place.  Since he is feeling abandoned by God he is not comforted that God is with him in the midst of his pain. These are questions that are still asked today. It is a difficult topic for which the answers to the questions are hard to come by and accept.  As Christians we know that Jesus told us that there would be tribulation but that He is with us through it all. Although it is difficult we need to rest on his promises and gain strength knowing that Christ understands our pain and is there to help us through it all.

In Job 25 and 26 Bildad speaks to God’s dominion and power. He asks if any human can be considered righteous in God’s presence. Job answers by acknowledging God’s power. When it is used for good purposes it is marvelous, but when it allows things that trouble us Job questions whether we can understand that kind of power.

In Luke 21 Jesus sees a poor widow giving money at the Temple and commends her for giving so much to the Lord. Others give a portion of their wealth; she gives an abundance of her poverty.

Jesus then speaks about the end times, as we call it. He speaks of troubled times throughout the world when Christians everywhere are persecuted for their faith. He encourages them to be on guard, to be alert, and pray.

Each day he teaches in the temple. Each night he goes on the Mount of Olives. People come every moring to hear him teach.