Friday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Mass Readings

 

In the first reading from the Book of Revelation we hear a dramatic description of the overthrow of Death and Hades. John speaks of the holy ones who have turned to Christ—those souls who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and the word of God, who have come to life and now reign with Christ in a realm of peace. He presents the vision of “a new Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband” (Rev 21:2). Here in this holy city “God lives among his people (responsorial refrain Rev 21:3b). “Blessed are they who dwell in your house!” (Ps 84:5).

The gospel from St. Luke continues the consideration of the question of when the end time will occur. In yesterday’s first reading (for those sake of those who used special readings for Thanksgiving Day) we would have heard: “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken…” (Rev 21:25-26). Jesus says “…when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near” (Lk 21:30). Yet he goes on to say “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away” (Lk 21:33). God has indeed promised to “live among his people” to be with us always through whatever calamity may befall our world. His Word, which will not pass away, is an anchor in our lives in the midst of change and confusion. During this time of conflict and turmoil in our world, these words of assurance are a harbor for us in the storm of uncertainty and fear.

Thought for the day: Have I turned to the Lord today to listen to the word of peace he speaks in my life in the midst of the turbulence and unrest?

 Reflection by Br. Michael Marcotte, OSB