(Daniel 7:2-14, Resp. Psalm (Daniel 3:75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81); Luke 21:29.33)
When reflecting on our daily readings I find it helpful to ask myself why does the Church want us to study this particular scripture today. In pondering this question today I am called to reflect back on the Apocalyptic and Apocryphal readings we have been presented over the last several weeks. The Apocalyptic scripture of Daniel reveals to us a picture of the end times; while much of the imagery used in Daniel refers to beasts representing various kingdoms of Daniels time, it is very helpful for us to use this same imagery as a basis for meditation and reflection when praying for our world today. The Apocalyptic scripture of Revelation reveals to us the truth of the unseen world and the power it holds around us, all with the promise of new life in Jesus Christ. The Apocryphal scripture offered these last several weeks, found Wisdom and Maccabees, also gives us much to reflect on as well.
Yes, the Church has presented us during this season of Ordinary Time, scripture that provides the foundation for deep and rich reflection as we prepare ourselves for the upcoming Advent Season. Wisdom reveals to us just, right and divine law, Maccabees provides for us an opportunity to grow in strength and devotion to our Lord, Daniel captivates us as it ignites our desire to surrender to the One true King, and Revelation, while sometimes blowing our minds, reveals to us the promise God so benevolently offers in His Kingdom. How beautifully has the Church prepared us to enter into Advent on Sunday.
Looking at today’s scripture we witness in Daniel the presentation of our Lord to the Ancient One. Jesus being presented to God himself, given “dominion, glory, kingship” over all peoples, all nations for all eternity. Yes, the readings of Ordinary Time are approaching their zenith today! (feel free to read ahead in Saturday’s scripture to catch the final act!) As our Lord receives his everlasting Kingdom we are granted our salvation if we choose to live with him. OK – sign me up!!!!!! And Lord – please send this invitation to each and every person in your universe that I am blessed to touch.
Then we have our Gospel, here Jesus gives us sacred instruction, the instruction leading us towards the Kingdom. “Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. When their bud burst open, you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near; in the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near…” Take a moment now and envision yourself holding a lovely little bud just before it bursts open, look at its beauty, smell it’s fragrance, feel it’s gentle makeup and its vulnerability as it rests in your hand. Then witness it burst open before your eyes, revealing all its hidden beauty and splendor. What pleasure it brings us in fragrance, in touch, in sight.
Now look at your little bud, see it as the love of God, the love he has for his beloved children. He is calling us to partake in this love and to share it with the world. However, like the little bud, we must be care for and nourish this love. Just as Mary cared for our dear Savior so that he could bring forth such great love into the world, we must care for the little buds of love found in our hearts. By doing so we participate in the expansion of God’s eternal love. As Jesus said, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” His love will never pass away.
Let’s together enter into the Advent Season, sharing with one another the love our Savior came to give us. Let’s love and forgive one another, revealing true Christian love to the world, so that we can be the expression of the most abundant, lovely blooms the earth has ever seen, in turn offering Mother Mary and her Son our own exquisite blooms.
Jesus – I love you!
