Reflection for Saturday, November 26, 2011: 34th week in Ordinary Time.
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Authors
Tinley, Susan
Issue Date
2011-11-26
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Essay
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en_US
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The apocalyptic language of today's reading from Daniel is certainly graphic in its description of his anguish and the terror of his visions. The fourth beast with iron teeth and bronze claws and its ten horns was destroying everything in its path. The description reminded me of some of the crazy science fiction movie clips on TV which always cause me wonder that anyone would want to go see them. That does not seem to have a place in the Bible, and is not an easy passage to pray with. Then the gospel account with Jesus warning that the final day will approach with the surprise of a trap that will assault us with tribulations.|It all seems out of place as we come to the close of the Church year on this last day of ordinary time. Tomorrow is the beginning of advent, a time to strengthen our relationship with Jesus and prepare for his coming. One wonders why the dire warnings at this particular time. Shouldn’t the readings be more hopeful to prepare us for the beginning of Advent?|But, if we can get beyond these dire warnings, we see that there is hope. There is the promise that God will be a just judge. He will be there during the anxieties of our days and any sufferings that we encounter. He does not expect that we do it on our own; it is our faith and trust in God that saves us. He is honored by our trust not by our fear.|As we finish this church year, may we put the anxieties of our lives in the loving hands of Jesus so that we can focus on preparing for his coming and bask in the warmth of his love.
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University Ministry, Creighton University.
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These reflections may not be sold or used commercially without permission. Personal or parish use is permitted.
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Lectionary Number: 508