http://usccb.org/bible/readings/111713.cfm
Quick recap:
1st Reading - Malachi - prophecy of destruction for evildoers and healing for the just
Psalm 98 - The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice
Epistle - 2 Thessalonians - mind your own business, and if you are able to work, you must do so
Gospel - Luke 21 - appears to be speaking of coming destruction and evil, but reminds us to persevere and we will be saved
We've been hearing lots about the Second Coming recently. As the liturgical year wraps up (this is the last Sunday in Ordinary Time), we are called to plan for Jesus' return. We must be prepared. While this can all seem overwhelming, Jesus reminds us to, 'not be terrified.' Frankly - it's a tall order. When we hear the bad things that happen - typhoons, wars, terrorist acts, famines, etc, we fear the worst. We believe it is the end of the world. But the world's end goal is salvation, not destruction.
Okay, well, maybe not everyone has a goal of salvation, but as Christians, that SHOULD be our goal. The closer we come to establishing peace and justice, the closer we are to eternal Heaven. Now, we're going to have some rough times to get to that point. Evil has a grip on our world, and it isn't easily vanquished. That is why Jesus emphasizes perseverance. We can't give up; our job is not done. As we hear in Living Liturgy 2013, we will know the end is here when " . . . there is no more work of salvation to do." So we must persist until our end comes, either through death or Jesus' coming.
No one said this would be easy. Our symbol is the cross, an instrument intended for torture and shame. But because of Christ's redemption, the cross symbolizes hope and faith. We are not alone.
Prayer - Lord, You call me to a special task in Your work of salvation. Help me to embrace my crosses so I can more perfectly honor You. I want to persevere.
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