THE PAROUSIA... LAST THINGS

HOMILY OF 33RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR B

THEME: THE PAROUSIA…THE LAST THINGS

In the history of religion, the term eschatology refers to conception of the last things: immortality of the soul, rebirth, resurrection and the end time. It is also believed that everything in this world including the cosmos itself exists in time and must one day come to its very end. Each year, especially by this time, nature reminds us of this reality of always getting prepared and to be renewed for that day unknown to us.

In no distant time, our liturgical year, that is year B will be drawing to a close. As we are ending as to begin a new liturgical year of the church, so it is in every sphere of life; for example trees like ‘’Oha’’ shed their leaves in preparation for new life, individuals are seriously preparing to end the season, even some land animals and birds have started migrating for a new life looking for a greener pasture.

However, the church has always and will forever remind us as she did in today’s readings to be aware and to consider seriously about the reality of last end, the coming of Christ- the parousia, the time when Jesus Christ will return to judge humanity at the end of this world. In our first reading today, Daniel makes us to understand that there will be a time of trouble, such as never has been, but at that time, that people will be delivered, everyone’s name shall be found written in the book. Daniel strongly proclaimed that hard times will end and a new kingdom will be established. In speaking of this hope- filled future, the book alludes to ideas that will be found in the New Testament: about angels, about the resurrection, about the son of man. 

In today’s gospel, Jesus said to his disciples, ‘’in those days after the great tribulation, the sun will be darkened and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven and the powers in heaven will be shaken. And then they will see the son of man coming in clouds with great power and glory. And then he will send out the angels, and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven. Dear friends in Christ, with the weight of this message, one could see the reason why the disciples in Mathew 24:3, approached Jesus privately and asked; ‘’Tell us when this will take place. What signs will be given us before your coming and the end of the world’’. 

In 1cor. 15:23, one could see this great message being preached again. ‘’in fact, who but you are our hope and our joy? Who but you will be our glorious crown before Jesus our lord, when he returns’’ {1 thess. 2:19}.

We as Christians, we ought to look forward to the second coming of Christ the parousia, as to the occasion of a great feast and celebration. Beloved in Christ, in Christian context, the sun represent bountifulness, hope and victory of life over death. Biblically, the moon symbolizes and highlights cosmic events, divine epiphanies and ephemeral nature of human life. Spiritually, the star is connected with the light of Christ. Star represents the five wounds of Jesus on the cross; it has the symbolism of divine guidance and protection. Dear friends in Christ, today’s readings especially the gospel is reminding us the need to get prepared for the last days and like Christ said, there will be the gathering of the elect.

Therefore as Christians;

We must not expect a life free from suffering

We must not expect a life free from denial

We must not expect a life free from hatred

We must not expect a life free from persecutions.

Let us like Jesus who passed through all these in the hands of men, stood firm and accomplished his mission, may we also accounted as those who accomplished their mission on the last day.

What lessons can we draw from today’s message?

Understanding and having good relationship with people will help us to be with God on the last day.

In line with the gospel acclamation today, let us watch at all times, praying that we may be able to stand justified before the son of man.

Like the sun, let us radiate, show love and concern to those who suffer for no just cost.

Since death is a necessary end, let us always get prepared by serving God in faith and love.

As Christians, we must learn to make good use of each and every day of our lives. 

LET US PRAY: O lord, help us not to give up and grant us the enabling grace to see the last days in peace! Amen.

Fr. Sampson Chetachukwu Nwachukwu, SMMM.