By Sharon Piuse A csc –
Readings: Rev 18:1-2, 21-23, 19:1-3,9a; Lk 21:20-28
In the gospel reading, we see that Jesus continues to warn his people, especially people in Jerusalem. Jesus spoke clearly about the end of the world. I feel it was not to scare us but to be alert about the events that are to happen. Jesus is the one who said to us “fear not” and “believe”.
The frightening things will help each one to believe in God. I personally feel that Jesus said about the end of the world because we need to be aware of the importance of the gospel message. We all have experienced one or the other way the natural calamities of the world. For example, this pandemic or death of our relatives due to serious illness, etc., can shake us physically, mentally, and spiritually. As human beings, we have a tendency to run away from problems and difficulties.
I believe that these are all part and parcel of our human life, so the gospel tells each one of us to prepare for a new way of living. It is only by depending upon Jesus Christ, the source of light, that we can lead a new life. If we go far away from this eternal light that means we are in darkness. People who work at night wait for the day to come. Likewise, those who are in the darkness of sin should seek for the true light of Christ. He wanted to bring all humans close to God. In this time of problems and difficulties, we are called to “stand up and raise our head, because our redemption is drawing near.” It is an invitation to each one of us.