Reflection for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time…Nov. 17, 2024

by Theresa Wiggs, Notre Dame Associate

Mark 13:24 RSV-CE

Our gospel this week begins: MK 24 ” But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light. 25 and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.”

This brings to mind a grim vision. I believe the lesson from this reading is that we should expect problems, conflict, and even suffering. We all have troubles; that’s part of being alive and human.  Yet, we read on and gather hope from the final words in this weeks gospel:

Mark 13:31-32 

31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

32 “But of that day or that hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

After reading this gospel, I prayed. The message I got in my prayer was that trials and tribulations can be met with despair or acceptance. We, as Catholics are blessed with the sacrament of reconciliation. We can use that sacrament to restore ourselves when our flaws and weaknesses get the better of us.This is a blessing!

As for dealing with life’s trials, we turn to the Scriptures for context and consolation. So much of the daily readings this week help me to put into perspective, my own life circumstances, and the troubles of those people I love. When we focus on the negative we block the help of the Holy Spirt to help us. Let us instead focus on our endlessly merciful Lord, to cope with what life brings.

Here’s one hope filled last line from our Gospel:

Mark 13:29;

29 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates.

I give thanks that HE, our Lord loves each of us dearly and anxiously awaits the time we will be with him in heaven. I urge all of us to live “life on earth” as if our reward in heaven is close hand. and, be grateful for the blessings we receive each day.   AMEN