Gospel: December 1, 2023
(Friday) 34th Week in Ordinary Time
Psalter: Week 2 / (Green)
Responsorial Psalm: Dn 3: 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81
Give glory and eternal praise to him!
1st Reading: Daniel 7: 2-14Gospel: Luke 21: 29-33And Jesus added this comparison, “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. As soon as their buds sprout, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom of God is near. Truly, I tell you, this generation will not pass away, until all this has happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.Reflection:“Jesus’ Word and kingdom will not pass away.”
When I was young, my grandparents and even my parents would complain that nothing was built to last anymore. In the years since my childhood, things have gotten no better. Clothing falls apart easily. Electronics have a short life. Even cars and major appliances don’t seem to last long. Our landfills and oceans are a testament to how much we discard and how disposable so many things are.
But the readings today speak not just of the last things, but of lasting things. Jesus’ Word and kingdom will not pass away. They are eternal. God’s reign will never end. Even more, God wants us to share his eternal kingdom. That is the goal for which we strive. It is the end to which a life of holiness draws us. The more we set our minds and hearts not on the disposable things of this world, but on the things that never pass away—faith, hope and love—the more we will be ready for our eternal home.
