💖 HOMILY - NOVEMBER 26 💖

First Reading - Apocalypse 14:14-19

Gospel - Luke 21:5-11

Heraclitus once said, "You cannot step into the same river twice," emphasizing the ever-changing nature of reality. Indeed, everything in life is in flux—good can turn to bad, and bad can turn to good. But while this perspective acknowledges change, it doesn't capture the constancy of God. The readings today remind us that while human glory is fleeting, God’s glory endures forever. This truth invites us to live humbly and faithfully before Him.

The first reading from the Book of Revelation is a symbolic portrayal of eschatological judgment. It vividly illustrates that the Lord alone is the ultimate judge of the universe. Drawing from Daniel 7:13, where the Son of Man is seen coming in glory on the clouds, John reiterates that Jesus Christ is the final judge of all nations. This scene calls us to take stock of our lives and renew our commitment to faithfulness, for it is only through fidelity to God that we can escape His wrath and share in His glory.

In the Gospel, Jesus responds to His disciples' admiration of the magnificent Temple in Jerusalem. The grandeur of the Temple was undeniable, with its towering marble pillars and gold-plated domes. Yet Jesus foretells its complete destruction, a prophecy that was tragically fulfilled in AD 70 when the Romans razed the city, destroyed the Temple, and left Jerusalem in ruins. Beyond this, Jesus also speaks of the signs of the end times—wars, natural disasters, plagues, and cosmic disturbances—warning His disciples against placing their trust in temporal things.

These readings together present a sobering reality: all human achievements, no matter how grand, will eventually pass away. The Temple, a source of national pride and religious identity, stood as a symbol of glory for the people of Israel. Yet it was destroyed, reminding us that earthly splendor, fame, and power are transient. The first reading points to Jesus as the ultimate judge, calling us to fidelity, while the Gospel warns against becoming overly attached to worldly pursuits.

Dear friends, this message challenges us to examine our priorities. While striving for excellence, success, and recognition is not inherently wrong, these goals should not become our ultimate purpose. Instead, our focus must be on living a life pleasing to God. Our fleeting human glory pales in comparison to the eternal glory of God, which never fades. By living humbly and faithfully, we align ourselves with the unchanging will of God, preparing for the end of our lives and the final judgment.

As we reflect on these readings, let us remember that human glory may fade, but God’s glory endures forever. Let this truth guide us to live for His glory, trusting in Him and offering our lives as a testimony to His greatness. 

May God grant us the grace to keep our eyes fixed on Him and to live each day in a way that glorifies His name.