Imperfection

Homily for Tuesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Today’s Scripture readings speak of an important historical reality, one of which I believe we are all aware. Earthly kingdoms, very much like the men and women who rule over them, do not last forever. This is especially true if the kingdom in question is in opposition to the Kingdom of God. As the Wisdom Literature of the Scriptures tells us, all created things are but grass which withers and dies.

Daniel, one of the four major prophets of Israel, is similar to his ancestor Joseph in that he can interpret dreams. Through him, God reminds King Nebuchadnezzar that his kingdom, and the earthly kingdoms that follow his, will all be destroyed and replaced. This cycle will end only when the one true God establishes a Divine Kingdom.

Jesus, in fulfilling the prophetic role, makes a similar statement when he overhears some people discussing the magnificence of Herod’s Temple. Wars and natural disasters, which we still witness today, will also come in the future.

The message of these readings is clear. All human endeavors are imperfect and will eventually pass away. Although we know this truth, God still calls us to be active citizens working to make our homes and our communities as caring and as just as possible. Receiving Jesus in the Eucharist gives us the wisdom and strength needed for this important work.