The Prophet Daniel in this week’s and next week’s first reading writes about the “Son of Man” coming at the end of time. As we near the end of this long period of Ordinary Time, the readings also reflect “end times.” As we think of the end of our time on earth─after all we just celebrated All Saints and All Souls─we know that for us there are two end times: one at the end of our physical lives; and one at the end of time: the Parousia. In Catholic theology we understand this as a time of redemption, a gathering of the elect into God’s arms.
We hear some scary phrases today about vigilance, about tribulation, the moon will not give light, the sun will be darkened, the stars falling from the sky and everlasting horror and distress. Daniel reminds us all, however, that “the wise shall shine brightly like the splendor in the firmament, and those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever.” It would be wise to reflect on what is wisdom according to Scripture—and to conduct ourselves accordingly.
It is important that we live “resurrected lives” that reflect the hope and joy of which Daniel writes. Our worship should also reflect the anticipation of this hope and joy; and that we witness our commitment to this belief by what we say and do, both in church and out. Every time we celebrate the Mass, we remember the Christ who came, who died and rose, and who will return to gather all of us for a new existence in the new and eternal Jerusalem. We have a foretaste of the heavenly banquet right here and now; and we are joined to heaven in the Eucharistic prayer.
Today we sing the Psalm: “You are O God, my inheritance. I have all I need.” We must sing it, believe it, and live it. If we live a resurrected life, we will have no worry about either of the end times. “The King Shall Come When the Morning Dawns, and light triumphant breaks, When beauty gilds the eastern hills and life to joy awakes!” O God, we look forward to the “fullness of joys in Your presence.”
Keep singing!
Elizabeth Dyc
We hear some scary phrases today about vigilance, about tribulation, the moon will not give light, the sun will be darkened, the stars falling from the sky and everlasting horror and distress. Daniel reminds us all, however, that “the wise shall shine brightly like the splendor in the firmament, and those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever.” It would be wise to reflect on what is wisdom according to Scripture—and to conduct ourselves accordingly.
It is important that we live “resurrected lives” that reflect the hope and joy of which Daniel writes. Our worship should also reflect the anticipation of this hope and joy; and that we witness our commitment to this belief by what we say and do, both in church and out. Every time we celebrate the Mass, we remember the Christ who came, who died and rose, and who will return to gather all of us for a new existence in the new and eternal Jerusalem. We have a foretaste of the heavenly banquet right here and now; and we are joined to heaven in the Eucharistic prayer.
Today we sing the Psalm: “You are O God, my inheritance. I have all I need.” We must sing it, believe it, and live it. If we live a resurrected life, we will have no worry about either of the end times. “The King Shall Come When the Morning Dawns, and light triumphant breaks, When beauty gilds the eastern hills and life to joy awakes!” O God, we look forward to the “fullness of joys in Your presence.”
Keep singing!
Elizabeth Dyc
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