Blog & Pastor Letters

The Coming Judgment

11-14-2021Weekly ReflectionSt. Joseph Catholic Church (stjoesmarion.org)

Jesus speaks in cryptic language here about coming judgment. He uses language that is reminiscent of the Old Testament prophets, including Daniel in the first reading. There is dual meaning here. First, Jesus points forward to judgment upon the city of Jerusalem. This was fulfilled in A.D. 70 when the Romans conquered Israel, pillaged Jerusalem, and leveled the Temple. This fulfillment makes sense of Jesus’ statement that “this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place.”

The destruction of Jerusalem occurred within the lifetime of many who were hearing these words. Second, Jesus is speaking prophetically about His Second Coming. Jesus will one day “come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,” as we profess in the Creed. Although we do not know when, it is a fact that He will one day return. It could be today, or tomorrow, or next year, or 1,000 years from now for all we know. The question is, will you be ready?

Taking it Home:

Jesus died on the cross to offer us eternal life in heaven. Yet, often times we get caught up in the here and now. This life is not forever. We will one day be held accountable for all that we have done. You’re invited to prepare by seeking to love Jesus above all else now.

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