The imagery used to describe the indescribable "end" is not to give us a definite image about it; but to set us in motion in the path of conversion and reform, both personal and societal.

To wait for the end, to calculate its final appearance can become an escapism from making a decision in the present or to postpone a decision for change. When it comes to God the future is never to be seen as distant from the present. The future is already hidden in the present like a tree in the seed that is sown. Awaiting is trusting. To begin to trust in God is to begin to get involved in his plan. Those who look at it in this manner will also be characterized with a prayer life that puts its total trust in God. Basically Jesus is offering a corrective to the views held by people about the revelation of that day! Therefore Jesus first tells us that the coming of the Son of Man is not determined by our expectations. It will defy all calculation. That day will erupt in people's ordinary life and daily occupations as it happened during Noah's time (the flood) or Lot's stay at Sodom and Gomorrah.

Salvation will not come to those who by their own human effort will try to save themselves.