The days are growing shorter. The nights are getting longer. For those few who live above the arctic circle, the sun has disappeared for weeks now and won’t return until March. The first part of the Gospel resonates loudly for them. As terrifying as some of the images are, as unpleasant as our long winter nights, we can take comfort in knowing that God is in charge. The Son of Man will come with his angels and gather those who live in the Lord to be with God. May that give comfort as the nights continue to grow longer and colder.
The Bible is full of many different styles of writing, from Jewish histories to Jesus’ parables, the poetry of the psalmist to the apocalyptic literature we hear today. As they are in poetry, the words in apocalyptic writings are meant to be understood differently from those of other parts of the Bible. In writing down these terrible images, Daniel and Mark were not trying to describe what would literally happen in the future, but to shake their listeners out of their drowsiness. “Watch out!” “Look ahead!” But each includes words of reassurance. Daniel’s image of the wise and just fixed like stars in the night sky reminds us of God’s promise to Abraham. And Jesus’ reference to himself coming in glory on the last day reminds his disciples that he will always be with us, even as he was facing his crucifixion, death, and burial. So we can face whatever tribulations may happen, in the world, in our lives, for we know that no matter what, Jesus is with us. We have no need to be afraid.
Love, Peace, Joy,
Fr. Bob
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