Friends, today we are celebrating the Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B. The readings of today call us to live wisely, trust in Jesus’ sacrifice, and have hope in difficult times. They remind us of the final judgment and the hope of resurrection and eternal life. Brothers and sisters, as we reflect on these themes, let’s strive to live according to God’s will and help others do the same. Lord, help us to live wisely and lead others to You. Thank You for Jesus’ sacrifice that makes us holy. Strengthen our faith and give us hope in difficult times.
Friends, in our first reading of today, the Archangel Michael is the divine figure who protects our dignity. He is the great prince who mounts guard over us. There are two points to note here. The first is the crucial role of Archangel Michael. However, this role must not be confused with the role of Christ as the savior. Archangel Michael is simply a faithful Guard. Second, “all those whose names are found written in the book shall be saved.” In other words, they are the ones marked for eternal perfection through the sacrifice and blood of Christ. The good news is that there is still time to inscribe our names in this book. This is because Christ, our eternal high priest, has already made it possible for us to do so.
Friends, this passage tells us about the final judgment, where those who are wise will shine brightly, and those who lead others to righteousness will be like stars forever. It encourages us to live wisely and help others follow God’s ways. This reading reminds us that we will face a final judgment. Our actions and choices matter, and we should strive to live according to God’s will. Brothers and sisters, we are called to lead others to righteousness and to be a light in the world. As we reflect on this, we should examine our lives. Are we living wisely? Are we helping others find their way to God? This reading challenges us to be mindful of our actions and their impact on others.
Friends, the second reading from the letters to the Hebrews highlights the efficacy of Christ’s sacrifice for our salvation. It is a sacrifice that marks all believers with a bold sign of “forgiven, acquitted, and sealed for salvation.” As the old covenant’s fulfillment, Christ, the new covenant’s high priest, has offered this sacrifice once and for all. So, all we need to do is simply approach the throne of his mercy to draw strength from Him. His sacrifice has purified and saved us. Brothers and sisters, Jesus offered one sacrifice for sins and then sat down at the right hand of God. His sacrifice made us holy, and there is no need for further offerings for sin. The second reading of this Sunday shows us the completeness of Jesus’ sacrifice. He has done everything needed for our forgiveness. This should fill us with gratitude and give us confidence in our salvation. Friends, we can see how much God loves us. Jesus’ sacrifice was once and for all. We should live in a way that honors this gift, knowing that we are forgiven and made holy through Him.
Friends, in the Gospel of today, Jesus speaks about the coming of the Son of Man during a time of great tribulation. He describes signs in the heavens and on earth, but He also assures us that His words will never pass away. This reading reminds us of the hope we have even in difficult times. Jesus’ words give us hope and strength. Even when things seem chaotic and uncertain, we know that He is in control. His promise to return gives us a future to look forward to. Friends, we can find comfort in Jesus’ words. We are reminded today that no matter how hard things get, we have hope in His return. This should encourage us to keep our faith strong and trust in His promises.
Friends, our world is only temporary. It serves as a stop on our way to God. The liturgical year also ends this weekend. Life has many endings and new beginnings, but God remains constant and eternal. Jesus teaches that this world will come to an end. He knew his earthly life was nearing its end as he entered Jerusalem. There were plots against him, and evil was present. Despite this, Jesus stayed true to his mission to gather God’s children and save them from destruction. When this Gospel was written, the Christian community faced much confusion. Jesus’ words reassured them that they were not forgotten. We cannot know God’s exact plans, but we can trust in His mercy. There will be signs of God’s work, but the details are not for us to know.
Friends, some signs of God are big and obvious. Others are small, like the sprouting leaves of a tree. We need to be open and alert to all ways the Spirit shows us God’s presence. This also helps us stay ready to build the Kingdom of God. Remember that this world is not our final home. Jesus has shown us the way, and we must stay focused on our journey to God. Trust in God’s constant presence and be alert to His signs, both big and small. The Lord be with you …. May the almighty God bless you, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Have a Blessed Sunday and a Fruitful New Week to You
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By: Fr. Ben Chola mccj
Aka Omuntu Wa Bantu
