"And what I say to you, I say to all, 'Be on the alert.'"

Jesus is not trying to inform us, He is trying to prepare us.

Often we look at this text, and texts like it and try to discern the day or time.  We try to figure out the proximity of the end be finding the signs.  We say, 'This sign means that Jesus is coming soon...'  But Jesus specifically tells us that this is not to be known.  Not even the Son knows it, only the Father.

So why tell us all these details?

To prepare us.  To make sure that we are on the alert.

If a storm is coming, we don't concern ourselves with the when or the where.  We don't worry about why it is coming or how it will arrive.  All we worry about is our response to that storm.  How will we survive?  Where can we find shelter?  Who will lead us to safety?

Be on the alert!