TODAY'S WORD
By
Fr. Aloysius Santiago sdb
Rector and Parish Priest
Don Bosco Shrine
Lingarajapuram, Bangalore
Then l saw a new heaven and a new earth’ (Rev 21:1)*
Reflection
The 1st reading talks about the defeat of evil and the victory of God.
Those who were faithful to God were not only restored but there is a celebration awaiting them - they will be at the wedding feast of the Lamb.
That is the revelation for us, that after a time of tribulation, there will be a celebration.
It also reminds us that the sufferings of this world is nothing compared to the eternal celebration and happiness that is awaiting us.
In the gospel, Jesus talks about a dark and disturbing time. He talked about a great misery that will descend on the land and wrath on the people.
But at the end of the gospel passage, Jesus also gave hope and encouragement when He said: When these things begin to take place, stand erect and hold your heads high, because your liberation is near at hand.
QUESTIONS TO PONDER
What am I doing to prepare for it, so that all suffering and tears will be wiped away?
Do I eagerly await ‘a new heaven and a new earth’ (Focus)?
Do I trust in God’s promise of “eternal life” (Jn 3:16) – a life where no worries, trials, suffering or terrible events will spook me?
Let us believe in it and persevere in our faith and hope.
God bless us all