“You are my inheritance, O Lord!”
Psalm 16:1
Readings
The Book of the Prophet Daniel 12:1-3
The Letter to the Hebrews 10:11-14, 18
Gospel according to Mark 13:24-32
Reflection
by Sister Dorothy Jean Beyer, OSB
We are getting closer and closer to the last Sunday of the Church’s year. In a couple of weeks, we will be beginning the Season of Advent. The flavor of the readings today reflect this reality of “the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory, and then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth to the end of the sky.” The readings focus us on the end of time of which no one knows that day or hour, except the Father.
The first reading greets us with these powerful words: “But the wise shall shine brightly like the splendor of the firmament, and those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever.” These words encourage us to be wise and just, to keep going on our spiritual journey with faith and in trust, knowing that God is always at our side, through every trial and tribulation.
But we falter….
But let us remember with the psalmist, “With the Lord, ever before me; with him at my right hand I shall not be disturbed.” (Psalm 16) Pause and embrace these words. Take them into your heart and soul and surrender to them. Be at peace, because “the Lord will not suffer his faithful one to undergo corruption.” We know the faithfulness of our Lord. Let us keep going. Our Lord will “show us the path of life, fullness of joys forever.”
From the Rule of St. Benedict
“Hour by hour keep careful watch over all you do, aware that God’s gaze is upon you, wherever you may be.” RB 4:48-49
Gospel Acclamation
“Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to stand before the Son of Man.” Luke 21:36