💖 HOMILY - NOVEMBER 29 💖

First Reading: Apocalypse 20:1-11,21:2

Gospel : Luke 21:29-33

We often hear the phrase, "Authority is for service." Yet, how easily this can be distorted into authority for dominance and self-interest. Today’s readings remind us that all authority ultimately belongs to God, and every earthly authority is subject to His supreme rule. This awareness calls us to live in humility and faithful obedience before the Lord.

In the first reading from Revelation, John presents a vision rich in symbolism, depicting the ultimate victory of God and His faithful ones over the forces of evil. The imagery of the thousand years, Satan’s temporary binding, and the final judgment speaks not of specific timelines but of the contrast between the temporary reign of evil and the definitive triumph of Christ. The martyrs, those who bore witness to Christ through their lives and deaths, are raised to reign with Him in the first resurrection. This is the vindication of their faithfulness. Ultimately, all are raised for the final judgment, where their deeds, recorded in the book of life, will determine their eternal destiny. The forces of chaos and evil will be utterly defeated, giving way to the New Jerusalem, the eternal city of God.

The Gospel uses the parable of the fig tree to emphasize the certainty of Jesus’ Second Coming and the Last Judgment. Just as the appearance of new leaves on the fig tree signals the approach of summer, so too will the signs of the end times point to the coming of the Son of Man in glory. For the Jews, the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70 symbolized the end of their world. But Jesus’ words transcend this historical moment, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan when He will return to judge the nations. This judgment reveals that Jesus, as the Son of Man, holds supreme authority and power.

Dear friends, the readings today remind us of a profound truth: God is in full command of the universe. He directs history, judges nations, and rewards those who remain faithful. The first reading assures us that those who acknowledge God’s sovereignty through their words, actions, and lives will be rewarded. The Gospel reinforces this by highlighting Jesus as the ultimate judge. If Jesus is the one entrusted with all authority, then our obligation is clear: to live according to His teachings and follow Him faithfully.

This calls us to humility. Today’s readings challenge us to let go of the illusion that we are in control. Instead, we are stewards, entrusted with responsibilities but accountable to God. Acknowledging God’s sovereignty means aligning our lives with His will and using our positions of influence or authority as opportunities to serve, not dominate. 

Let us, therefore, walk humbly before God, faithfully living out His teachings and recognizing His supreme authority in all aspects of our lives. When the time of judgment comes, may we be found among those whose names are written in the book of life, ready to enter the New Jerusalem, where God’s reign is eternal. May His grace guide us to live as faithful stewards, always aware that we serve a God who is just, merciful, and in full command.