Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Daniel 12:1-3 | Psalm 16:5, 8-11 | Hebrews 10:11-14, 18 | Mark 13:24-32
"...he is near, at the gates.”
Mark 13:29
One of Christ's challenges before his very first disciples was to “be ready.” Prepare for trial and tribulation. Stay vigilant. Be not afraid!
We do not know the hour of our death or judgment, and so much of life lies beyond our control. We can naturally tend towards doom and despair, and so it takes to surrender to lay down our anxieties and fears before the God of heaven and earth. The prophet Daniel both warned of the coming distress while also encouraging those who live wisely “shall shine brightly like the splendor of the firmament, and those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever." (Dan 12:3).
St. Paul asserts that Christ “offered one sacrifice for sins, and took his seat forever at the right hand of God; now he waits until his enemies are made his footstool” (Heb. 10:13-14). Jesus himself speaks of disturbances and earthly kingdoms that shall pass, but he will remain Lord of all. If we stay near his heart, what shall we fear? We can take heart by looking back to the historical life of Christ on earth 2000 years ago, we can meet him in the Eucharist at every Mass today, and we can look with faith to his Second Coming in glory.
Jesus has a plan for our lives. Can we put our trust in him?
What takes up my attention, worry, or concern?
How might God be trying to get my attention? What does he want to say to bring comfort or challenge into my life?
Am I need of the sacrament of Confession? How can I make time to return to God with the time I have to live a life without fear?