Lk 21:25-28, 34-36
Then there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and on the earth anguish of nations, perplexed when they hear the roaring of the sea and its waves. People will faint with fear at the mere thought of what is to come upon the world, for the forces of the universe will be shaken. Then, at that time, they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
So, when you see things begin to happen, stand erect and lift up your heads, for your deliverance is drawing near.“
Be on your guard: don’t immerse yourselves in a life of pleasure, drunkenness and worldly cares, lest that day catch you unaware, like a trap! For, like a snare, will that day come upon all the inhabitants of the earth. But watch at all times and pray, that you may be able to escape all that is going to happen, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
REFLECTION
READ: Jesus reveals the disturbances that will precede His coming again in glory. But His followers need not fear for it is a sign of their imminent deliverance. So they have to be on guard not to be burdened by the cares of the world.
REFLECT: The Bible employs a lot of symbolic language in its presentation of spiritual truths. Ordinary words and literal meanings cannot fully grasp the meaning of and adequately describe the rich landscape of the things of the spirit. Thus to unpack the layers of meanings of symbolic language one needs to spend time in prayer, reflection and meditation. This is vexing to those who are in search for a quick fix of ready and available explanations. Thus enter the charlatans who exploit this need to have answers at once. Their weapon is literal interpretation. Their message is fear and exclusive salvation for those who will believe them. The end time is not just about cataclysm and calamities visiting the earth. It is also the second coming of the Lord. If we are truly His own, we need not fear. He comes not to punish but to gather His faithful.
RESPOND: We need to exert effort to understand our faith. For it is not just about feelings and emotions. It also has a cognitive content. Perhaps we need to think more about the possibility of enrolling ourselves in the various faith formation programs of our parishes. Or perhaps I can invest in good books that talk about my faith.
PRAY: Father in heaven, help me to nourish the intellectual dimension of my faith. Make me delight in discovering new facets of what I believe. May I always thirst for the truth that comes from you. Amen.
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