Apocalypse Now

Fr. Lawrence Jagdfeld, O.F.M., Administrator

Yesterday, I wrote of the apocalyptic nature of the Book of the Prophet Daniel and reminded you that apocalyptic literature springs from experiences of oppression and exile. Today's readings are both apocalyptic in tone and content as Jesus also becomes apocalyptic in speaking of the Kingdom of God.

Again, it is important to remember as we read such passages that these are not predictions of what is to come so much as they are expressions of confidence in the fact that God's Kingdom will overcome. In fact, these passages might be better read not as predictions but as reporting about what is actually going on at the time they are written. As such, they are not examples of peering into a crystal ball such as a fortune teller would do. Rather, they are relating the present circumstances in such a way that they would give courage to those who are undergoing these trials. This courage is born in the hearts of the oppressed because they have placed their trust in God.

Unfortunately, we tend to read these statements as if Jesus and Daniel were gazing into the future. Every natural disaster, every experience of war and oppression gives rise to so called "prophets" predicting that the end of the world is near. This year was no exception with at least two such predictions, neither of which, of course, proved true. In fact, such predictions caused even more difficulty for these people as they wasted their resources and maxed out their credit cards thinking that they would never have to fall back on their savings or pay off their debts.

If only we would listen to the message which is really quite clear. Don't be deceived. Rather, simply be ready. No matter when the end shall come, God's faithful people will be rewarded for their patience and for their trust in God's providential care.