33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
(Cycle “B" – November 19, 2006)

Q. 398: This gospel is scary stuff (Mark 13:24-32). We have “natural” catastrophes all the time; how will we know which “signs” point to the glorious coming of Christ?

A. 398: The “signs” that Jesus is talking about will be colossal and quite cosmic. It is pretty hard to misunderstand a darkened sun, a darkened moon, and falling stars – all in the same period of time. Jesus makes it clear that we will not mistake the cosmic signs, just like we cannot mistake the coming of Spring; both will be instantly recognizable. Very emphatically, Jesus says “you will know” when the Son of Man is coming!

If we are not ready… too bad! It will then be too late. We have experienced “natural” disasters and wars of giant proportions, as chastisements and as warnings of what is yet to come. No one knows the exact date or hour; but the “cosmic event” is coming, and Christ will return “with great power and glory.” His chosen – those who are striving daily to do His will – will then be gathered and assemble in His presence. That is His promise.

So the message is clear: if no one knows “when” this will happen, we had better be prepared! Are you willing to gamble with your soul’s eternal life and put off a necessary confession for weeks or more? Is there someone in your life whom you still refuse to forgive? Is your prayer life only lukewarm and sporadic? Are there other “habits” you need to reverse and replace with virtues, right now? Most importantly, do you humbly adhere to the teachings of the Magisterium in matters of faith and morals?

The gospel does not have to “scare” us; rather, it is Good News! Jesus promises to come again, and he is giving us ample warning and daily opportunities to amend our lives. He leaves the choice to us.

KNOW YOUR CATECHISM! It is indeed Good News to know that Jesus is coming back to gather His chosen ones, those who do His will. That is cause for hope and for rejoicing, to remember His promise. That is also why we can pray the prayer of the early Christians, Marana tha – come, Lord Jesus! (CCC #671).

Deacon Paul Rooney
Mary Our Queen Parish, Omaha

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