Through our Redeemer, we find our true place in time and, ultimately, in eternity
Reflections on the readings for the Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time (November 14, 2021): DN 12:1-3; PS 16:5,8,9-10,11; HEB 10:11-14,18; MK 13:24-32
MISSIO offers “Preaching Mission,” as a homily help, providing connections to mission from the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
What our Lord really wants is for His people to be prepared every day, every hour... Many generations have come and gone and possibly many more will before Christ returns. He makes it clear we have no way of knowing just when...
In both today’s First Reading from the Book of Daniel and the Gospel reading, we are reminded of a subject that many of us may prefer not to contemplate: the end of the world. For others, it may seem so distant that it is almost meaningless. However, we hear Jesus tell his disciples: “In those days after that tribulation the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from the sky, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. And then, they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in the clouds’ with great power and glory. … But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” (Mark 13:24-26,32). These words most likely disturbed Jesus’ followers. Even though we are told that “His elect” will be gathered up, the idea of the world as we know it coming to an end is difficult to imagine and may strike dread into some hearts. Yet what our Lord really wants is for His people to be prepared every day, every hour. If we live as true children of God, demonstrating faith, hope, and charity with our thoughts and choices, our words and actions, we have nothing to fear.
Many generations have come and gone and possibly many more will before Christ returns. He makes it clear we have no way of knowing just when the signs will appear announcing that singular final event. But we do know is that each one of us will die someday. We need to use the time we have – however it ends – to live the way Christ asks of us. If we live mindfully with the purpose of honoring, loving, and serving God, we will be doing what He wants. If we love and respect our neighbors, caring for those who need our help, we will be doing what He wants. We will indeed be judged, but if we choose to belong to our Lord and follow Him, He will know us, call us by name, and take us home. Forever.
