In November, the earth disrobes. Her bright shimmering garb of red and gold leaves falls to the ground. Naked trunks and limbs are exposed to the cold autumn light. All around us we can see trees anchored in the dark soil while their branches and twigs reach toward the sky. We can see the trees bridging the divide between earth and heaven.
Apocalypse is about dispelling illusion and seeing deeply into the marrow of existence.
In the gospel lesson today, Jesus is intent upon dispelling illusions. That which seems indestructible can in fact be destroyed, he tells us. He gives this sermon to his disciples as they gather around him outside of the great temple. While gazing at its strong walls, he tells them that not one stone will be left upon another. This is an important speech and his manner has a sense of urgency.