Homily For Thursday Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time Year B, 28th November, 2024

Readings: Rev.18:1-2,21-23,19:1-3,9; Ps.100; Luke:21:20-28

Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Emenike Onyia.

HOW PREPARED ARE YOU FOR OUR REDEMPTION IS DRAWING NEAR?

As we continue to reflect on the great event about the coming of the Lord. Jesus, in our Gospel passage today, continues his warnings concerning what will happen to the beautiful things of this passing world, which he illustrated very well by telling us what will eventually happen to the great city of Jerusalem in relation to what will happen at the end of all things. This passage contains the truth that we need to be reminded of often. That is, the need for us to be prepared for the day of the Lord despite all the beautiful and seductive things we encounter in this world.

Thus, as the great and holy city of Jerusalem was besieged and destroyed by the Romans less than four decades after the death and resurrection of Christ, so will the things of this world pass away, including those who are attached to them. Just as we also heard in our first reading today, the account of the declaration of the Angel of God at the end of the last trumpets how the world ends with the plagues, the final defeat of the devil and all the forces of the wicked, which is well illustrated with the fall of ‘Babylon’ that shall never rise again, for it has come to it’s final and ultimate defeat. While God has triumphed and won the ultimate victory for his faithful people.

Dear friends, there is no doubt that there are great signs of the end time event, but this should not be an occasion for fear but rather a period for intense preparations. Nonetheless, for the righteous, it is a period of joy and happiness since our redemption from the powers of evil is close at hand. Although we do not know when, but, Jesus assures us that he will return in power and great glory. Therefore, we should take heed and not be deceived by the beauty of the things of this passing world, for our redemption is drawing near.

LET US PRAY: Lord God, as we make efforts every day to prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ, your Son, give us the grace and courage to remain steadfast even in the midst of all the crises in our world today. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. Have a fruitful day.