In Mark 13:14–37, Jesus prepares His followers for intense persecution and tribulation in the days ahead and especially during the end times. He gives them hope to endure these trials by describing His glorious return as the conquering King of the universe (verses 24–27). To keep them from despairing in dark times, the Lord wants them to live in readiness for His second coming. “However,” Jesus states, “no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. And since you don’t know when that time will come, be on guard! Stay alert!” (verses 32–33, NLT).