Rev. 18:1-2, 21-23, 19:1-3, 9; PSALM 100; LUKE 21:20-28
“Fallen is Babylon the Great,” we read in the first reading, the cries of the angels. The heavenly crowd sang a hymn of thanksgiving to God for punishing and destroying the City of Babylon. Babylon’s wickedness, harlotry, and corruption in the globe brought about judgment upon them. God executes just and true judgment. Beloved, this will be the end for everyone who was invited to the marriage feast of the Lamb but did not accept it.
In the gospel we are presented with the end-time experience. Jesus prepares the minds of his disciples ahead of the possible disasters that would happen. Such a message at about now would include the dreaded issues of atomic bomb, nuclear and terrorist attacks and ecological catastrophes. However, Jesus says; ‘Don’t give up’. All of the metaphors used in the gospel give the impression that Jesus’ arrival will be a violent event, but in reality, repentance is what is required, not worry and agitation. For the virtuous, the arrival of Christ is an event to look forward to with gladness. Therefore, let’s give up Babylon’s customs and lead lives deserving of salvation.
Let us pray
Lord God, have mercy and forgive us our sins. Through the Holy Spirit, help us to renounce all evil and ungodly practices and grant us the knowledge of salvation. Amen.
