Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 159
Lectionary: 159
Lo, the day is coming, blazing like an oven,
when all the proud and all evildoers will be stubble,
and the day that is coming will set them on fire,
leaving them neither root nor branch,
says the LORD of hosts.
But for you who fear my name, there will arise
the sun of justice with its healing rays.
when all the proud and all evildoers will be stubble,
and the day that is coming will set them on fire,
leaving them neither root nor branch,
says the LORD of hosts.
But for you who fear my name, there will arise
the sun of justice with its healing rays.
Responsorial
PsalmPS 98:5-6, 7-8, 9
R. (cf. 9) The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.
Sing praise to the LORD with the harp,
with the harp and melodious song.
With trumpets and the sound of the horn
sing joyfully before the King, the LORD.
R. The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.
Let the sea and what fills it resound,
the world and those who dwell in it;
let the rivers clap their hands,
the mountains shout with them for joy.
R. The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.
Before the LORD, for he comes,
for he comes to rule the earth,
he will rule the world with justice
and the peoples with equity.
R. The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.
Sing praise to the LORD with the harp,
with the harp and melodious song.
With trumpets and the sound of the horn
sing joyfully before the King, the LORD.
R. The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.
Let the sea and what fills it resound,
the world and those who dwell in it;
let the rivers clap their hands,
the mountains shout with them for joy.
R. The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.
Before the LORD, for he comes,
for he comes to rule the earth,
he will rule the world with justice
and the peoples with equity.
R. The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice.
Reading 22 THES 3:7-12
Brothers and sisters:
You know how one must imitate us.
For we did not act in a disorderly way among you,
nor did we eat food received free from anyone.
On the contrary, in toil and drudgery, night and day
we worked, so as not to burden any of you.
Not that we do not have the right.
Rather, we wanted to present ourselves as a model for you,
so that you might imitate us.
In fact, when we were with you,
we instructed you that if anyone was unwilling to work,
neither should that one eat.
We hear that some are conducting themselves among you in a
disorderly way,
by not keeping busy but minding the business of others.
Such people we instruct and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly
and to eat their own food.
You know how one must imitate us.
For we did not act in a disorderly way among you,
nor did we eat food received free from anyone.
On the contrary, in toil and drudgery, night and day
we worked, so as not to burden any of you.
Not that we do not have the right.
Rather, we wanted to present ourselves as a model for you,
so that you might imitate us.
In fact, when we were with you,
we instructed you that if anyone was unwilling to work,
neither should that one eat.
We hear that some are conducting themselves among you in a
disorderly way,
by not keeping busy but minding the business of others.
Such people we instruct and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly
and to eat their own food.
AlleluiaLK 21:28
R. Alleluia,
alleluia.
Stand erect and raise your heads
because your redemption is at hand.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Stand erect and raise your heads
because your redemption is at hand.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
GospelLK 21:5-19
While some people were speaking about
how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings,
Jesus said, "All that you see here--
the days will come when there will not be left
a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down."
Then they asked him,
"Teacher, when will this happen?
And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?"
He answered,
"See that you not be deceived,
for many will come in my name, saying,
'I am he,' and 'The time has come.'
Do not follow them!
When you hear of wars and insurrections,
do not be terrified; for such things must happen first,
but it will not immediately be the end."
Then he said to them,
"Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.
There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues
from place to place;
and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.
"Before all this happens, however,
they will seize and persecute you,
they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons,
and they will have you led before kings and governors
because of my name.
It will lead to your giving testimony.
Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand,
for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking
that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute.
You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends,
and they will put some of you to death.
You will be hated by all because of my name,
but not a hair on your head will be destroyed.
By your perseverance you will secure your lives."
how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings,
Jesus said, "All that you see here--
the days will come when there will not be left
a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down."
Then they asked him,
"Teacher, when will this happen?
And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?"
He answered,
"See that you not be deceived,
for many will come in my name, saying,
'I am he,' and 'The time has come.'
Do not follow them!
When you hear of wars and insurrections,
do not be terrified; for such things must happen first,
but it will not immediately be the end."
Then he said to them,
"Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.
There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues
from place to place;
and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.
"Before all this happens, however,
they will seize and persecute you,
they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons,
and they will have you led before kings and governors
because of my name.
It will lead to your giving testimony.
Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand,
for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking
that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute.
You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends,
and they will put some of you to death.
You will be hated by all because of my name,
but not a hair on your head will be destroyed.
By your perseverance you will secure your lives."
Meditation: "Take
heed that you are not led astray"
How
would you respond if someone prophesied that your home, land, or place of
worship would be destroyed? Jesus foretold many signs that would shake peoples
and nations. The signs which God uses are meant to point us to a higher
spiritual truth and reality of his kingdom which does not perish or fade away,
but endures for all eternity. God works through many events and signs to purify
and renew us in hope and to help us set our hearts more firmly on him and him
alone.
First
signs of the end times
To the great consternation of the Jews, Jesus prophesied the destruction of their great temple at Jerusalem. The Jewish people took great pride in their temple, a marvel of the ancient world. The foretelling of this destruction was a dire warning of spiritual judgment in itself. They asked Jesus for a sign that would indicate when this disastrous event would occur. Jesus admonished them to not look for signs that would indicate the exact timing of impending destruction, but rather to pray for God's intervention of grace and mercy.
To the great consternation of the Jews, Jesus prophesied the destruction of their great temple at Jerusalem. The Jewish people took great pride in their temple, a marvel of the ancient world. The foretelling of this destruction was a dire warning of spiritual judgment in itself. They asked Jesus for a sign that would indicate when this disastrous event would occur. Jesus admonished them to not look for signs that would indicate the exact timing of impending destruction, but rather to pray for God's intervention of grace and mercy.
Jesus
said there would be many signs of impending conflicts and disasters - such as
wars, famines, diseases, tidal waves, and earthquakes - which would precede the
struggles of the last days when God's anointed King would return to usher in
the full reign of God over the earth. In that day when the Lord returns there
will be a final judgement of the living and the dead when the secrets of every
heart will be brought to light (Luke 12:2-3; Romans 2:16).
Jesus
foretells the destruction of the Temple at Jerusalem
Jesus' prophecy of the destruction of the temple at Jerusalem was a two-edged sword, because it pointed not only to God's judgment, but also to his saving action and mercy. Jesus foretold the destruction of Jerusalem and the dire consequences for all who would reject him and his saving message. While the destruction of Jerusalem's temple was determined (it was razed by the Romans in 70 A.D.), there remained for its inhabitants a narrow open door leading to deliverance. Jesus said: "I am the door; whoever enters by me will be saved" (John 10:9). Jesus willingly set his face toward Jerusalem, knowing that he would meet betrayal, rejection, and death on a cross. His death on the cross, however, brought about true freedom, peace, and victory over the powers of sin, evil, and death - not only for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, but for all - both Jew and Gentile alike – who would accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Do you know the peace and security of a life submitted to the lordship of Jesus Christ?
Jesus' prophecy of the destruction of the temple at Jerusalem was a two-edged sword, because it pointed not only to God's judgment, but also to his saving action and mercy. Jesus foretold the destruction of Jerusalem and the dire consequences for all who would reject him and his saving message. While the destruction of Jerusalem's temple was determined (it was razed by the Romans in 70 A.D.), there remained for its inhabitants a narrow open door leading to deliverance. Jesus said: "I am the door; whoever enters by me will be saved" (John 10:9). Jesus willingly set his face toward Jerusalem, knowing that he would meet betrayal, rejection, and death on a cross. His death on the cross, however, brought about true freedom, peace, and victory over the powers of sin, evil, and death - not only for the inhabitants of Jerusalem, but for all - both Jew and Gentile alike – who would accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Do you know the peace and security of a life submitted to the lordship of Jesus Christ?
We
need to recognize the signs of God's judgment, mercy, and grace to save us
Sometimes we don't recognize the moral crisis and spiritual conflict of the age in which we live, until something "shakes us up" to the reality of this present condition. God reminds us that a future judgment and outcome awaits every individual who has lived on this earth. The reward for doing what is right and pleasing to God and the penalty for sinful rebellion and rejection of God are not always experienced in this present life - but they are sure to come in the day of final judgment.
Sometimes we don't recognize the moral crisis and spiritual conflict of the age in which we live, until something "shakes us up" to the reality of this present condition. God reminds us that a future judgment and outcome awaits every individual who has lived on this earth. The reward for doing what is right and pleasing to God and the penalty for sinful rebellion and rejection of God are not always experienced in this present life - but they are sure to come in the day of final judgment.
The
Lord Jesus tells us that there will be trials, suffering, and persecution in
this present age until he comes again at the end of the world. God intends our
anticipation of his final judgment to be a powerful deterrent to unfaithfulness
and wrongdoing. God extends grace and mercy to all who will heed his call and
his warning. Do not pass up, even for one day, God's invitation of grace and
mercy to seek first his kingdom of righteousness and peace. This day may be
your only chance before that final day comes.
Satan
destroys and kills - God restores and gives life
The real enemy of the Gospel - the good news of Jesus Christ - is Satan (also called Lucifer), the powerful leader of the fallen angels who rebelled against God and who were cast out of heaven. Satan opposes God and all who follow his rule of peace and righteousness (moral goodness) on the earth. Jesus calls Satan a "murderer" who turns brother against brother and the "father of lies" who twists the truth and speaks falsehood (John 8:44). Satan not only opposes God's rule, he seeks to destroy all who would obey God. Satan will use any means possible to turn people away from God. He tempts people through envy, deception, hatred, and fear to provoke hostility towards those who follow the Lord Jesus Christ.
The real enemy of the Gospel - the good news of Jesus Christ - is Satan (also called Lucifer), the powerful leader of the fallen angels who rebelled against God and who were cast out of heaven. Satan opposes God and all who follow his rule of peace and righteousness (moral goodness) on the earth. Jesus calls Satan a "murderer" who turns brother against brother and the "father of lies" who twists the truth and speaks falsehood (John 8:44). Satan not only opposes God's rule, he seeks to destroy all who would obey God. Satan will use any means possible to turn people away from God. He tempts people through envy, deception, hatred, and fear to provoke hostility towards those who follow the Lord Jesus Christ.
What
is Jesus' response to hostility and persecution? Love, forbearance, and
forgiveness. Only love - the love which is rooted in God's great compassion and
faithfulness - can overcome prejudice, hatred, and envy. God's love purifies
our heart and mind of all that would divide and tear people apart. Knowing God
as our compassionate Father and loving God's word of truth and righteousness
(moral goodness) is essential for overcoming evil. Jesus tells us that we do
not need to fear those who would oppose us or treat us harshly for following
the Lord Jesus. He promises to give us supernatural strength, wisdom, and
courage as we take a stand for our faith and witness to the truth and love of
Christ.
The
Gospel is good news for the whole world because it is God's eternal word of
truth, love, pardon, and salvation (being set free from sin and evil) through
his Son, Jesus Christ. The Lord Jesus has won the victory for us through his
atoning death on the cross for our sins and his rising from the grave - his
resurrection power that brings abundant life and restoration for us. That is
why the Gospel has power to set people free from sin, fear and death, and bring
peace, pardon, and new life.
Endurance
never gives up hope in God
Jesus tells his disciples that if they endure to the end they will gain their lives - they will inherit abundant life and lasting happiness with God. Endurance is an essential strength which God gives to those who put their trust in him. Endurance is the patience which never gives up hope, never yields to despair or hatred. Patience is long-suffering because it looks beyond the present difficulties and trials and sees the reward which comes to those who persevere with hope and trust in God. That is why godly endurance is more than human effort. It is first and foremost a supernatural gift of the Holy Spirit which enables us to bear up under any trial or temptation.
Jesus tells his disciples that if they endure to the end they will gain their lives - they will inherit abundant life and lasting happiness with God. Endurance is an essential strength which God gives to those who put their trust in him. Endurance is the patience which never gives up hope, never yields to despair or hatred. Patience is long-suffering because it looks beyond the present difficulties and trials and sees the reward which comes to those who persevere with hope and trust in God. That is why godly endurance is more than human effort. It is first and foremost a supernatural gift of the Holy Spirit which enables us to bear up under any trial or temptation.
Endurance
is linked with godly hope - the supernatural assurance that we will see God
face to face and inherit all the promises he has made. Jesus is our supreme
model and pioneer who endured the cross for our sake (Hebrews 12:2). "God
shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for
us" (Romans 5:8). Jesus willingly shed his blood for us - to win for us
pardon and peace with God. Our joy and privilege is to take up our cross each
day to follow the Lord Jesus.
True
martyrs live and die as witnesses of Christ and the Gospel of peace
The word "martyr" in the New Testament Greek means "witness". The Book of Revelation says that "Jesus was the faithful witness ...who freed us from our sins by his blood" (Revelation 1:5). Tertullian, a second century lawyer who converted when he saw Christians singing as they went out to die by the hands of their persecutors, exclaimed: "The blood of the martyrs is seed." Their blood is the seed of new Christians, the seed of the church.
The word "martyr" in the New Testament Greek means "witness". The Book of Revelation says that "Jesus was the faithful witness ...who freed us from our sins by his blood" (Revelation 1:5). Tertullian, a second century lawyer who converted when he saw Christians singing as they went out to die by the hands of their persecutors, exclaimed: "The blood of the martyrs is seed." Their blood is the seed of new Christians, the seed of the church.
The
third century bishop, Cyprian said: "When persecution comes, God's
soldiers are put to the test, and heaven is open to martyrs. We have not
enlisted in an army to think of peace and to decline battle, for we see that
the Lord has taken first place in the conflict." True martyrs live and die
as witnesses of the Gospel. They overcome their enemies through persevering
hope and courage, undying love and forbearance, kindness, goodness, and compassion.
God
may call some of us to be martyrs who shed their blood for bearing witness to
Jesus Christ. But for most of us, our call is to be 'dry' martyrs who bear
testimony to the joy and power of the Gospel in the midst of daily challenges,
contradictions, temptations and adversities which come our way as we follow the
Lord Jesus.
We
do not need to fear our adversaries
What will attract others to the truth and power of the Gospel? When they see Christians loving their enemies, being joyful in suffering, patient in adversity, pardoning injuries, and showing comfort and compassion to the hopeless and the helpless. Jesus tells us that we do not need to fear our adversaries. God will give us sufficient grace, strength, and wisdom to face any trial and to answer any challenge to our faith. Are you ready to lay down your life for Christ and to bear witness to the joy and freedom of the Gospel?
What will attract others to the truth and power of the Gospel? When they see Christians loving their enemies, being joyful in suffering, patient in adversity, pardoning injuries, and showing comfort and compassion to the hopeless and the helpless. Jesus tells us that we do not need to fear our adversaries. God will give us sufficient grace, strength, and wisdom to face any trial and to answer any challenge to our faith. Are you ready to lay down your life for Christ and to bear witness to the joy and freedom of the Gospel?
"Lord
Jesus Christ, by your atoning death on the cross you have redeemed the world.
Fill me with joyful hope, courage, and boldness to witness the truth of your
love for sinners and your victory over the powers of sin, Satan, and
death."
Daily
Quote from the early church fathers: First signs of the end times, by
Maximus of Turin (died between 408-423 AD)
"Perhaps
you are anxious, brothers and sisters, at the fact that we hear constantly of
the tumult of wars and the onsets of battles. Perhaps your love is still more
anxious since these are taking place in our times. The reason is the closer we
are to the destruction of the world, the closer we are to the kingdom of the
Savior. The Lord himself says, 'In the last days nation will rise against
nation and kingdom against kingdom. When you see wars, earthquakes and famines,
know that the kingdom of God is at hand.'This nearness of wars shows us that
Christ is near." (excerpt from SERMON 85.1)
33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Cycle C
Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended
that the reader look up and read that passage.
1st Reading - Malachi 3:19-20a (Malachi 4:1-2a in all translations but the New American
Bible)
This book gets its name from the phrase in 1:1 which is translated in 3:1. Malachi
1:1 says “The word of the Lord to Israel through Malachi” and 3:1 says “See, I will send my
messenger, who will prepare the way for me.” Malachi means “my messenger.” Who this
messenger was, no one knows. He is believed to have written this book after the rebuilding
of the Temple (515 B.C.) and before the reform work of Esdras (458 B.C.).
Malachi is wholly concerned with the religious conditions of the Jewish community.
He shows himself to be a patriotic Jew unable to tolerate mixed marriages lest the land
become “unclean” from the “abominable and sensuous” types of worship common among
the pagans. Staunchly loyal to his religion, he cannot remain silent at the sight of a
priesthood that is ignorant, indulgent, and grasping. As a result, the people are very
easygoing, and weak in the practice of their faith. Malachi energetically exhorts them –
particularly the priests – to practice their religion in a more wholehearted manner, based
on the love of God.
The author of Malachi, in his short book is best known for two of his prophecies:
[3:1] “Behold, I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me” which Jesus
applies to John the Baptist in Matthew 11:10; and [4:5-6 (3:23 in the New American Bible)]
“I will send you the prophet Elijah before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. He
will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their
fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse” which Jesus also applies to John
the Baptist in Matthew 11:14.
Our reading for today is sandwiched between these two prophesies and deals with
the triumph of the just. The problem of evil is that just men suffer and unjust men prosper.
19 For lo, the day is coming, blazing like an oven, when all the proud and all evildoers
will be stubble, And the day that is coming will set them on fire, leaving them neither
root nor branch, says the LORD of hosts.
A day will sure come when the least shadow of evil will be totally swept away.
20a But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing
rays.
This phrase draws upon a very common symbol in the ancient Near East. The sun, always
one of the principal gods, was thought to provide warmth and life, light and law. The author
of Malachi uses the same symbolism but identifies the deity as the one God, Yahweh. (See
also 1 Corinthians 3:10-15).
2nd Reading - 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12
Today we conclude our three week study of 2 Thessalonians with Paul’s words of
encouragement to this struggling community. Some have misunderstood the timing of the
second coming and have even given up working in anticipation of the event.
7 For you know how one must imitate us.
“A teacher demonstrates great confidence if he uses his own good actions to reprove his
disciples. And so Paul writes, ‘You know how one must imitate us.’ And he ought to be a
teacher more of life than of the word. Let no one think that Paul says this because of a
boastful heart. The necessity of the situation in Thessalonica drove him to speak in this
way, with a view to the advantage of the entire community.” [Saint John Chrysostom
(between A.D. 398-404), Homilies on the Second Epistle to the Thessalonians 5]
For we did not act in a disorderly way among you, 8 nor did we eat food received free
from anyone. On the contrary, in toil and drudgery, night and day we worked, so as
not to burden any of you.
Paul presents his own example both positively and negatively. This is what we did, and this
is what we did not do.
9 Not that we do not have the right. Rather, we wanted to present ourselves as a
model for you, so that you might imitate us. 10 In fact, when we were with you, we
instructed you that if anyone was unwilling to work, neither should that one eat.
While awaiting the parousia, the Christian is to engage fully in his earthly tasks.
11 We hear
The news is quite recent.
that some are conducting themselves among you in a disorderly way, by not keeping
busy but minding the business of others.
Some, not all, are involved. Their disorderly lives consist in the neglect of fruitful work and
great activity disturbing others.
12 Such people we instruct and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly and to
eat their own food.
Every Christian is to support himself as he is able.
“This we must also keep in mind – that he who labors ought to perform his task not for the
purpose of ministering to his own needs but that he may accomplish the Lord’s command,
‘I was hungry and you gave me to eat’ (Matthew 25:35), and so on. To be concerned for
oneself is strictly forbidden by the Lord in the words, >Be not concerned for your life, what
you shall eat, nor for y9our body, what you shall put on,’ and he adds ‘for the heathens ask
after all these things’ (Matthew 6:25, 32). Everyone, therefore, in doing his work, should
place before himself the aim of service to the needy and not his own satisfaction. Thus, he
will escape the charge of self-love and receive the blessing for fraternal charity from the
Lord, who said, ‘As long as you did it to one of these, the least of my brothers, you did it to
me’ (Matthew 25:40). Nor should anyone think that the apostle is at variance with our rule
when he says, ‘that working they would eat their own bread.’ This is addressed to the
unruly and indolent, and means that it is better for each person to minister to himself at
least and not be a burden to others than to live in idleness.” [Saint Basil the Great (after A.D.
370), Rules Treated at Length Q,42,R]
Gospel - Luke 21:5-19
Again, recall that Jesus is now in Jerusalem for His passion. As is usual for Luke,
Jesus is speaking publically in the Temple.
5 While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly
stones and votive offerings, he said, 6 “All that you see here--the days will come when
there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.” 7
Then they asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be
when all these things are about to happen?”
Like all humans, the hearers want an indication of when the events are beginning. Maybe
there will be time then to repent and be saved – this is surely easier than living the live God
wants us to live every day of our lives.
8 He answered, “See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying,
‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’ Do not follow them!
The disciples should not confuse the destruction of the Temple with Jesus’ return.
9 When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must
happen first, but it will not immediately be the end.”
There will be a period beyond national/international crisis.
10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against
kingdom. 11 There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to
place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.
Standard biblical expressions for great sorrows. See 2 Samuel 24:13; Isaiah 8:21; Jeremiah
21:9; Ezekiel 5:12.
12 “Before all this happens, however, they will seize and persecute you, they will hand
you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings
and governors because of my name. 13 It will lead to your giving testimony. 14
Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand,
The Greek word used here, pro-méletaō, occurs only here in the entire New Testament. It
means “to practice gestures or rehearse a dance.” Christians are not stage actors.
15 for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be
powerless to resist or refute.
Luke 12:12 ascribes this inspiration to the Holy Spirit.
16 You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they
will put some of you to death. 17 You will be hated by all because of my name, 18 but
not a hair on your head will be destroyed.
Usually translated “perish.” The future resurrection of the body sustains the martyrs.
19 By your perseverance you will secure your lives.
Jesus exhorts His disciples to perseverance amid duress.
Note: Where a Scripture text is underlined in the body of this discussion, it is recommended
that the reader look up and read that passage.
1st Reading - Malachi 3:19-20a (Malachi 4:1-2a in all translations but the New American
Bible)
This book gets its name from the phrase in 1:1 which is translated in 3:1. Malachi
1:1 says “The word of the Lord to Israel through Malachi” and 3:1 says “See, I will send my
messenger, who will prepare the way for me.” Malachi means “my messenger.” Who this
messenger was, no one knows. He is believed to have written this book after the rebuilding
of the Temple (515 B.C.) and before the reform work of Esdras (458 B.C.).
Malachi is wholly concerned with the religious conditions of the Jewish community.
He shows himself to be a patriotic Jew unable to tolerate mixed marriages lest the land
become “unclean” from the “abominable and sensuous” types of worship common among
the pagans. Staunchly loyal to his religion, he cannot remain silent at the sight of a
priesthood that is ignorant, indulgent, and grasping. As a result, the people are very
easygoing, and weak in the practice of their faith. Malachi energetically exhorts them –
particularly the priests – to practice their religion in a more wholehearted manner, based
on the love of God.
The author of Malachi, in his short book is best known for two of his prophecies:
[3:1] “Behold, I will send my messenger, who will prepare the way before me” which Jesus
applies to John the Baptist in Matthew 11:10; and [4:5-6 (3:23 in the New American Bible)]
“I will send you the prophet Elijah before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. He
will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their
fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse” which Jesus also applies to John
the Baptist in Matthew 11:14.
Our reading for today is sandwiched between these two prophesies and deals with
the triumph of the just. The problem of evil is that just men suffer and unjust men prosper.
19 For lo, the day is coming, blazing like an oven, when all the proud and all evildoers
will be stubble, And the day that is coming will set them on fire, leaving them neither
root nor branch, says the LORD of hosts.
A day will sure come when the least shadow of evil will be totally swept away.
20a But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing
rays.
This phrase draws upon a very common symbol in the ancient Near East. The sun, always
one of the principal gods, was thought to provide warmth and life, light and law. The author
of Malachi uses the same symbolism but identifies the deity as the one God, Yahweh. (See
also 1 Corinthians 3:10-15).
2nd Reading - 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12
Today we conclude our three week study of 2 Thessalonians with Paul’s words of
encouragement to this struggling community. Some have misunderstood the timing of the
second coming and have even given up working in anticipation of the event.
7 For you know how one must imitate us.
“A teacher demonstrates great confidence if he uses his own good actions to reprove his
disciples. And so Paul writes, ‘You know how one must imitate us.’ And he ought to be a
teacher more of life than of the word. Let no one think that Paul says this because of a
boastful heart. The necessity of the situation in Thessalonica drove him to speak in this
way, with a view to the advantage of the entire community.” [Saint John Chrysostom
(between A.D. 398-404), Homilies on the Second Epistle to the Thessalonians 5]
For we did not act in a disorderly way among you, 8 nor did we eat food received free
from anyone. On the contrary, in toil and drudgery, night and day we worked, so as
not to burden any of you.
Paul presents his own example both positively and negatively. This is what we did, and this
is what we did not do.
9 Not that we do not have the right. Rather, we wanted to present ourselves as a
model for you, so that you might imitate us. 10 In fact, when we were with you, we
instructed you that if anyone was unwilling to work, neither should that one eat.
While awaiting the parousia, the Christian is to engage fully in his earthly tasks.
11 We hear
The news is quite recent.
that some are conducting themselves among you in a disorderly way, by not keeping
busy but minding the business of others.
Some, not all, are involved. Their disorderly lives consist in the neglect of fruitful work and
great activity disturbing others.
12 Such people we instruct and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly and to
eat their own food.
Every Christian is to support himself as he is able.
“This we must also keep in mind – that he who labors ought to perform his task not for the
purpose of ministering to his own needs but that he may accomplish the Lord’s command,
‘I was hungry and you gave me to eat’ (Matthew 25:35), and so on. To be concerned for
oneself is strictly forbidden by the Lord in the words, >Be not concerned for your life, what
you shall eat, nor for y9our body, what you shall put on,’ and he adds ‘for the heathens ask
after all these things’ (Matthew 6:25, 32). Everyone, therefore, in doing his work, should
place before himself the aim of service to the needy and not his own satisfaction. Thus, he
will escape the charge of self-love and receive the blessing for fraternal charity from the
Lord, who said, ‘As long as you did it to one of these, the least of my brothers, you did it to
me’ (Matthew 25:40). Nor should anyone think that the apostle is at variance with our rule
when he says, ‘that working they would eat their own bread.’ This is addressed to the
unruly and indolent, and means that it is better for each person to minister to himself at
least and not be a burden to others than to live in idleness.” [Saint Basil the Great (after A.D.
370), Rules Treated at Length Q,42,R]
Gospel - Luke 21:5-19
Again, recall that Jesus is now in Jerusalem for His passion. As is usual for Luke,
Jesus is speaking publically in the Temple.
5 While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly
stones and votive offerings, he said, 6 “All that you see here--the days will come when
there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.” 7
Then they asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be
when all these things are about to happen?”
Like all humans, the hearers want an indication of when the events are beginning. Maybe
there will be time then to repent and be saved – this is surely easier than living the live God
wants us to live every day of our lives.
8 He answered, “See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying,
‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’ Do not follow them!
The disciples should not confuse the destruction of the Temple with Jesus’ return.
9 When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must
happen first, but it will not immediately be the end.”
There will be a period beyond national/international crisis.
10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against
kingdom. 11 There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to
place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.
Standard biblical expressions for great sorrows. See 2 Samuel 24:13; Isaiah 8:21; Jeremiah
21:9; Ezekiel 5:12.
12 “Before all this happens, however, they will seize and persecute you, they will hand
you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings
and governors because of my name. 13 It will lead to your giving testimony. 14
Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand,
The Greek word used here, pro-méletaō, occurs only here in the entire New Testament. It
means “to practice gestures or rehearse a dance.” Christians are not stage actors.
15 for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be
powerless to resist or refute.
Luke 12:12 ascribes this inspiration to the Holy Spirit.
16 You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they
will put some of you to death. 17 You will be hated by all because of my name, 18 but
not a hair on your head will be destroyed.
Usually translated “perish.” The future resurrection of the body sustains the martyrs.
19 By your perseverance you will secure your lives.
Jesus exhorts His disciples to perseverance amid duress.
St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Picayune, MS
http://www.scborromeo.org
http://www.scborromeo.org
THIRTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17, LUKE 21:5-19
(Malachi 3:19-20a; Psalm 98; 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12)
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17, LUKE 21:5-19
(Malachi 3:19-20a; Psalm 98; 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12)
KEY VERSE: "The days will come when not one stone will be left upon another; all will be thrown down" (v. 6).
TO KNOW: Jesus told his disciples that the magnificent temple in Jerusalem would one day be reduced to rubble. True to his word, it was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. The temple was a sign of God's presence on earth, and Israel believed that the desecration of the temple would herald the end of the age (Dn 9:24-27). Jesus warned his followers not to be misled by false Messiahs, wars and natural disasters as proof that the time had come for his return. These events were just birth pangs of suffering that would occur in every age. Jesus' disciples must expect to share in his passion. While they would be persecuted by religious and political leaders and even members of their own families, they need not be concerned as to how they would defend themselves. They must trust in Jesus' divine presence as they faithfully witnessed to the gospel.
TO LOVE: Do I pray for all who are persecuted for their faith today?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, give me confidence when I face my adversaries.
Sunday 17 November 2019
Malachi 3:19-20. Psalm 97(98):5-9. 2 Thessalonians 3:7-12. Luke
21:5-19.
The Lord comes to rule the earth with justice – Psalm 97(98):5-9
‘By your perseverance you will secure your lives’
The psalm offers us nourishing words to console us in times of
upheaval and crisis. We hear that ‘the Lord comes to rule the earth with
justice’, a promise which acts as encouragement in our days. There is a musical
theme throughout, as we are invited to praise with harp, voice, trumpets, and
horn. The sea, the world, the rivers, the mountains, all make music to the Lord
in joy and acclamation.
The Lord is on his way to rule with justice and equity for the
peoples. We wait in expectant hope and attend to this time with faith and
trust. ‘All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things
shall be well’ as our sister Julian of Norwich once wrote. So today, when we
feel moved to worry, let us place our hope in the Lord, singing songs of praise
until he comes.
Saint Elizabeth of Hungary
Saint of the Day for November 17
(1207 – November 17, 1231)
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| Detail | Saint Elizabeth of Hungary | Series of frescoes with scenes from the life of St. Martin of tours in the Lower Church of Saint Francis of Assisi | Simone Martini |
Saint Elizabeth of Hungary’s Story
In her short life, Elizabeth manifested such great love for the
poor and suffering that she has become the patroness of Catholic charities and
of the Secular Franciscan Order. The daughter of the King of Hungary, Elizabeth
chose a life of penance and asceticism when a life of leisure and luxury could
easily have been hers. This choice endeared her in the hearts of the common
people throughout Europe.
At the age of 14, Elizabeth was married to Louis of Thuringia,
whom she deeply loved. She bore three children. Under the spiritual direction
of a Franciscan friar, she led a life of prayer, sacrifice, and service to the
poor and sick. Seeking to become one with the poor, she wore simple clothing.
Daily she would take bread to hundreds of the poorest in the land who came to
her gate.
After six years of marriage, her husband died in the Crusades,
and Elizabeth was grief-stricken. Her husband’s family looked upon her as
squandering the royal purse, and mistreated her, finally throwing her out of
the palace. The return of her husband’s allies from the Crusades resulted in
her being reinstated, since her son was legal heir to the throne.
In 1228, Elizabeth joined the Secular Franciscan Order, spending
the remaining few years of her life caring for the poor in a hospital which she
founded in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi. Elizabeth’s health declined,
and she died before her 24th birthday in 1231. Her great popularity resulted in
her canonization four years later.
Reflection
Elizabeth understood well the lesson Jesus taught when he washed
his disciples’ feet at the Last Supper: The Christian must be one who serves
the humblest needs of others, even if one serves from an exalted position. Of
royal blood, Elizabeth could have lorded it over her subjects. Yet she served
them with such a loving heart that her brief life won for her a special place
in the hearts of many. Elizabeth is also an example to us in her following the
guidance of a spiritual director. Growth in the spiritual life is a difficult
process. We can play games very easily if we don’t have someone to challenge us.
Saint Elizabeth of Hungary is the Patron Saint of:
Bakers
Catholic Charities
Secular Franciscan Order
Catholic Charities
Secular Franciscan Order
Lectio Divina: 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time (C)
Lectio Divina
Sunday, November 17, 2019
The discourse of Jesus on the end of time
Luke 21:5-19
Luke 21:5-19
1. Opening prayer
Lord, You who have made sky and earth and sea, and everything in
them; it is You who said through the Holy Spirit and speaking through our
ancestor David, Your servant:
Why this uproar among the nations,
this impotent muttering of the peoples?
Kings of earth take up position,
princes plot together
against the Lord and His Anointed”.
... Stretch out your hand to heal and to work miracles and marvels through the name of Your holy servant Jesus (Acts 4:24-25,30)”. Fill us with Your Spirit as You gave it to the Apostles after this prayer, in the time of trial, so that we can also proclaim the Word openly and give witness as prophets of hope.
Why this uproar among the nations,
this impotent muttering of the peoples?
Kings of earth take up position,
princes plot together
against the Lord and His Anointed”.
... Stretch out your hand to heal and to work miracles and marvels through the name of Your holy servant Jesus (Acts 4:24-25,30)”. Fill us with Your Spirit as You gave it to the Apostles after this prayer, in the time of trial, so that we can also proclaim the Word openly and give witness as prophets of hope.
2. Lectio
a) The context :
The passage concerns the beginning of Jesus’ discourse on the
end of the world. The passage Luke 21:5-36 is a whole literary unit. Jesus is
in Jerusalem, at the entrance to the temple, the Passion is near. The Synoptic
Gospels (also see Mt 24; Mk 13) have the so called “eschatological” discourse
precede the account of the Passion, Death and Resurrection. These are events to
be read in the light of the Passover. The language is the “apocalyptic” one.
Attention is not placed on each word, but on the announcement of the total
overturn. The community of Luke already knew about the events concerning the
destruction of Jerusalem. The Evangelist universalizes the message and makes
evident the intermediate time of the Church waiting for the coming of the Lord
in glory. Luke refers to the end of time also in other parts (12:35-48;17:
20;18:18).
b) A possible division of the text:
Luke 21:5-7: introduction.
Luke 21:8-9: initial warning.
Luke 21:10-11: the signs.
Luke 21:12-17: the disciples put to the test.
Luke 21:18-19: protection and trust.
Luke 21:8-9: initial warning.
Luke 21:10-11: the signs.
Luke 21:12-17: the disciples put to the test.
Luke 21:18-19: protection and trust.
c) The text:
While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned
with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, "All that you see
here-- the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone
that will not be thrown down." Then they asked him, "Teacher, when
will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about
to happen?" He answered, "See that you not be deceived, for many will
come in my name, saying, 'I am he,' and 'The time has come.' Do not follow
them! When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such
things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end." Then he
said to them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.
There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place;
and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky. "Before all
this happens, however, they will seize and persecute you, they will hand you
over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings
and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony.
Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall
give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to
resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives,
and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all
because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your
perseverance you will secure your lives."
3. A moment of prayerful silence
so that the Word of God may penetrate and enlighten our
life.
4. A few questions
- Which sentiments prevail in me: anguish, fear, trust, hope,
doubt...?
- Where is the Good News in this discourse?
- Do we love what we expect and do we conform ourselves to its demands?
- How do I react to trials in my life of faith?
- Can I make a connection with the present historical events?
- What place does Jesus have in history today?
- Where is the Good News in this discourse?
- Do we love what we expect and do we conform ourselves to its demands?
- How do I react to trials in my life of faith?
- Can I make a connection with the present historical events?
- What place does Jesus have in history today?
5. Meditatio
a) A key for reading:
Let us not allow ourselves to be attracted by the exterior
upheavals, typical of the apocalyptic language, but by the interior ones, which
are necessary, which pre-announce and prepare the encounter with the Lord. Even
being aware that today also, in different parts of the world, “apocalyptic”
situations are being lived, it is possible to make a personalized reading, not
an evasive one, which shifts the attention to personal responsibility. Luke,
regarding the other Evangelists, underlines that the end has not come, that it
is necessary to live the waiting with commitment. Let us open our eyes to the
tragedies of our time, not to be prophets of misfortune, but courageous
prophets of a new order based on justice and peace.
b) Comment:
[5] “When some were talking about the temple remarking how it
was adorned with fine stonework and votive offerings”, He said: Jesus was
probably at the entrance to the temple, considering the reference to the votive
offerings. Luke does not specify who the listeners are. It is directed to all.
He universalizes the eschatological discourse. This discourse can refer to the
end of time, but also to our personal end, the proper time of life. In common
there is the definitive encounter with the Risen Lord.
[6] “All these things you are staring at now, the time will come
when not a single stone will be left on another; everything will be
destroyed”. Jesus introduces a language of misfortune (17:22; 19:43) and
repeats the admonitions of the prophets concerning the temple (Micah 3:12; Jer 7:1-15;
26:1-19). It is also a consideration on the fragility of every human
achievement, no matter how marvelous. The community of Luke already knew about
the destruction of Jerusalem (year 70). Let us consider our attitude towards
the things that end with time.
[7] They asked Him: “Master, when will this happen, then, and
what sign will there be that it is about to take place?” The listeners are
interested in the external upheavals which characterize this event. Jesus does
not respond to this specific question. The “when” is not placed by Luke in
relation to the destruction of Jerusalem. He underlines that the end “will not
be immediately” (v. 9) and “that before all this...” (v. 12) others things will
happen. He questions us on the relation between the historical events and the
fulfillment of the history of salvation: the time of man and the time of God.
[8] He answered, “Take care not to be deceived, because many
will come using My name and saying: ‘I am the one’ and ‘the time is near at
hand’. Refuse to join them”. In regard to the other Evangelists, Luke adds
the reference to time. The community of the first Christians is
overcoming the phase of an immediate coming of the Lord and prepares
itself for the intermediate time of the Church. Jesus recommends that they not
allow themselves to be deceived, or better, to be seduced by impostors. There
are two types of false prophets: those who pretend to come in the name of Jesus
saying “I am the one” and those who affirm that the time is near at hand, that
the day is already known (10:11; 19:11).
[9] “When you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be terrified,
for this is something that must happen first, but the end will not come at
once”. Even the war events, and today we would say, the terrorist acts,
are not the beginning of the end. All this happens but it is not a sign of the
end. Luke wants to warn them about the illusion of the imminent end of time
with the consequent disillusionment and abandonment of faith.
[10] “Then He said to them, ‘Nation will fight against nation,
and kingdom against kingdom.
[11] There will be great earthquakes and plagues and famines in various places; there will be terrifying events and great signs from heaven‘”. The words “and then He said” is a repetition of the discourse after the initial warnings. This is fully apocalyptic language, which means revelation (Isa 19:2; 2Cor 15:6) and at the same time concealment. Traditional images are used to describe the rapid changes of history (Isa 24:19-20; Zech 14:4-5; Ezek 6:11-12, etc.). The imaginary catastrophe is like a curtain which hides the beauty of the scene which is behind: the coming of the Lord in glory (v. 27).
[11] There will be great earthquakes and plagues and famines in various places; there will be terrifying events and great signs from heaven‘”. The words “and then He said” is a repetition of the discourse after the initial warnings. This is fully apocalyptic language, which means revelation (Isa 19:2; 2Cor 15:6) and at the same time concealment. Traditional images are used to describe the rapid changes of history (Isa 24:19-20; Zech 14:4-5; Ezek 6:11-12, etc.). The imaginary catastrophe is like a curtain which hides the beauty of the scene which is behind: the coming of the Lord in glory (v. 27).
[12] “But before all this happens, you will be seized and
persecuted; you will be handed over to the synagogues and to imprisonment, and
brought before kings and governors for the sake of My name.”
[13] “and that will be your opportunity to bear
witness”. The Christian is called to conform himself to Christ. They have
persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. Luke recalls the scene of Paul
before King Agrippa and Governor Festo (Acts 25:23-26, 32). Behold the time of
trial. Not necessarily under the form of persecution. Saint Teresa of the Child
Jesus suffered the absence of God for eighteen months, when she discovered her
illness. A time of purification which prepares for the encounter. It is the
normal condition of the Christian, that of living in a healthy tension which is
not frustration. Christians are called to give witness to the hope which
animates them.
[14] “Make up your minds not to prepare your defense;
[15] because I Myself shall give you an eloquence and a wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to resist or contradict”. The time has come to place our trust completely in God, God alone suffices. It is that same wisdom with which Stephen confused his enemies (Acts 6:10). The capacity to resist to persecution is guaranteed for the believer.
[15] because I Myself shall give you an eloquence and a wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to resist or contradict”. The time has come to place our trust completely in God, God alone suffices. It is that same wisdom with which Stephen confused his enemies (Acts 6:10). The capacity to resist to persecution is guaranteed for the believer.
[16] “You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers,
relatives and friends, and some of you will be put to death”.
[17] “You will be hated universally on account of my name. The radical following of Christ implies also the overcoming of blood relations, those which we affectionately believe to be more secure. There is the risk of remaining alone, like Jesus in His Passion.
[17] “You will be hated universally on account of my name. The radical following of Christ implies also the overcoming of blood relations, those which we affectionately believe to be more secure. There is the risk of remaining alone, like Jesus in His Passion.
[18] “But not a hair of your head will be lost”. Luke
repeats the preceding verse (12:7) to remind us of the divine protection which
is assured at the moment of trial. The believer is also guaranteed the care of
his physical integrity.
[19] “Your perseverance will win you your
lives.” Perseverance (cf. Acts 11:23; 13: 43; 14:22) is indispensable in
order to bear fruit (8:15), in the daily trials and in persecutions. It means
the same as the “remain in Christ” of John. The final victory is certain: the
Kingdom of God will be established by the Son of Man. Therefore, it is
necessary to be persevering, vigilant and in prayer (v. 36 and 12:35-38). The
life-style of the Christian has to be a sign of the future which will
come.
6. Oratio: Psalm 98
Sing a new song to the Lord
Acclaim Yahweh, all the earth,
burst into shouts of joy!
Play to Yahweh on the harp,
to the sound of instruments;
to the sound of trumpet and horn,
acclaim the presence of the King.
Let the sea thunder, and all that it holds,
the world and all who live in it.
Let the rivers clap their hands,
and the mountains shout for joy together,
at Yahweh's approach,
for He is coming to judge the earth;
He will judge the world with saving justice
and the nations with fairness.
burst into shouts of joy!
Play to Yahweh on the harp,
to the sound of instruments;
to the sound of trumpet and horn,
acclaim the presence of the King.
Let the sea thunder, and all that it holds,
the world and all who live in it.
Let the rivers clap their hands,
and the mountains shout for joy together,
at Yahweh's approach,
for He is coming to judge the earth;
He will judge the world with saving justice
and the nations with fairness.
7. Contemplatio
Good God, whose Kingdom is all love and peace, You Yourself
create in our soul that silence that You need to communicate Yourself to it.
Peaceful acting, desiring without passion, zeal without agitation: all that can only come from You, Eternal Wisdom, Infinite activity, unalterable repose, principle and model of true peace.
You have promised us by Your prophets this peace. You have given it by Jesus Christ. You have given us the guarantee with the effusion of Your Spirit.
Do not permit that the envy of the enemy, the anxiety of passion, the scruples of conscience make us lose this heavenly gift, which is the pledge of Your love, the object of Your promises, the reward of the blood of Your Son. Amen. (Teresa of Avila, 38:9-10).
Peaceful acting, desiring without passion, zeal without agitation: all that can only come from You, Eternal Wisdom, Infinite activity, unalterable repose, principle and model of true peace.
You have promised us by Your prophets this peace. You have given it by Jesus Christ. You have given us the guarantee with the effusion of Your Spirit.
Do not permit that the envy of the enemy, the anxiety of passion, the scruples of conscience make us lose this heavenly gift, which is the pledge of Your love, the object of Your promises, the reward of the blood of Your Son. Amen. (Teresa of Avila, 38:9-10).
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