First Reading - Apocalypse 22:1-7
Gospel - Luke 21:34-36
The passage of the first speaks about the vision of the New Jerusalem is inspired by the vision of the river of life seen by the prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 47.1-12), flowing out from the Temple in Jerusalem, restored after the Babylonian Exile. That river flowed, ever deeper and ever more fruitful, down to the Dead Sea, and made even the stinking and toxic waters of that Sea fertile and full of fish. The Judean desert east of Jerusalem is arid and barren, with only a little growth where a few drops of water have somehow fallen; the river brings an unbelievable miracle of growth and fertility. The same fruitfulness is true of this river, flowing (somewhat impractically) down the middle of the city street. In addition, it brings healing also to the nations, for the nations are to draw healing and salvation from Jerusalem.
As a whole, the vision of the New Jerusalem instills confidence in people particularly the Christians who were undergoing persecution to look forward with hope and confidence. The passage emboldens people to march forward trusting in the promise of God to see New Jerusalem or New Kingdom where Christ reigns and he banishes all evil.
The gospel passage continues to teach us a lesson of being prepared for the coming of the Son of Man. Jesus, in the gospel of today, warns us against three threats in our preparation for his second coming; debauchery, drunkenness, and cares of life. Why are they placed as threats in our preparation? It's because they entangle us to the pleasures and worries of our lives and prevent us to think or care for the coming of Jesus. However, Jesus advices us to prepare ourselves for his second coming in vigilance, prayers, and confidence. Why they? It's because vigilance keeps us alert of every happening and keeps us ready for everything; prayer keeps us connected to God and helps us persevere in our preparation; and confidence bids us rely on the promise of Jesus and never lose heart.
Dear friends, as we are going to begin a new year or season (advent) of our liturgical calendar from tomorrow onwards. Therefore, the message of preparation is accentuated. The theme of 'preparation' hints at the twofold coming of Jesus; firstly, his historical coming at Bethlehem which we commomerat every year and, secondly, his glorious coming to judge the world (parousia). We are encouraged by the readings to prepare ourselves for both the events; to commemorate the earthly coming of Jesus and welcome the glorious coming of Jesus. As the gospel of today counsels us to remain vigilant, pray constantly, and remain confident, it's then we will be able to prepare ourselves for the coming of Jesus in our midst.
We do face trials and difficulties in our lives but God tells us through the first reading that our difficult times will not last long, they will pass but we should remain firm and confident in the promise of God for our protection and guidance. Let's not lose hope but remain firm and strong in our faith.
May God be our stronghold and support.
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