Renewal at the End of Time

HOMILY FOR THURSDAY OF THIRTY THIRD WEEK IN THE ORDINARY TIME YEAR B
 (APOCALYPSE 18:1-2,21-23,19:1-3,9, PSALM 99:2-5, LUKE 21:20-28). 

The fall of Jerusalem was a very painful experience to the Jews and a repeat of this would be a signal to the end of the world because Jerusalem is a very important city, the place where God is known to be residing. At this time, there would be a lot of weeping, destruction and desolation. Injustices would be on the rise.

Very often, the injustices in the world makes many people to suffer. Thus, their suffering becomes so intense that, they would begin to seek for liberation and consolation. But, how, from where and from whom will such liberation come is basically unknown? And this brings in moments of reflection. The reflection on the destruction of the world and the nearness of the end gives us an opportunity for renewal and a total turnover.

The gospel of today tells us about the end time scenarios and the things that would take place when the end is near. It says, “For great misery will descend on the land and wrath on this people. They will fall by the edge of the sword and be led captive to every pagan country; and Jerusalem will be trampled down by the pagans until the age of the pagans is completely over” (Luke 21:20-28).

“There will be signs in the sun and moon and stars; on earth nations in agony, bewildered by the clamour of the ocean and its waves; men dying of fear as they await what menaces the world, for the powers of heaven will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to take place, stand erect, hold your heads high, because your liberation is near at hand” (Luke 21:20-28).

The fall of Babylon (Revelation) and the fall of Jerusalem (gospel) serve as symbolic warnings for the end of the world and the coming of the Son of Man. There will be violence and war, pestilence and calamity, wrath and captivity. But the end will be the new heaven where everyone is invited to the marriage supper of the lamb. The Son of Man would be coming in the clouds in great glory. The redemption of the world would become a reality. We need to look up and see the beauty and majesty of God.

Today, God is offering us an opportunity for personal renewal. And opportunity that will not be given when it is too late. Let us grab this opportunity today and make adjustments about our lives, so that when the end comes, we may not be destroyed by the wrath of God. Peace be with you.