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33rd Sunday B
Dan 12:1-3
The passage from Daniel concludes the account of final warfare and the downfall of foes (ch. 10-11), presenting the first clear statement on resurrection and eternal life in Hebrew scriptures. It introduces a distinction between the just and the wicked, allowing for a deeper understanding of retribution beyond this life. Michael is identified as Israel’s guardian angel, delivering the faithful from tribulation. The resurrection is limited to Israelites, with a separation between the faithful and unfaithful co-religionists. The faithful are promised eternal life, while others face rejection. The saved will shine like stars, indicating a newfound vision of an afterlife for God’s holy ones.
Heb 10:11-14, 18
The reading contrasts Christ’s singular and effective sacrifice with the ineffective daily sacrifices of the temple priests (vv 11f). The annual Day of Atonement is distinguished from the ongoing priestly service. While the priests stand in continuous work, Jesus is depicted as seated, symbolizing the completion of his work and echoing Psalm 110. This seated position aligns with the high priest role, affirming that his one sacrifice is eternally relevant. Christ’s sacrifice ensures forgiveness and access to God, eliminating the need for further sacrifices. His triumph over evil is ongoing, culminating in complete victory at the end.
Mk 13:24-32
The eschatological discourse in the synoptic gospels, particularly Mark, focuses on two main themes: the nature of the parousia (Jesus’ second coming vv24-27) and its timing (vv. 28-32). Jesus uses apocalyptic imagery to illustrate the profound impact of the end of history and the ingathering of God’s people, which shifts from a focus on Yahweh to Christ’s dominion. He identifies himself with the “Son of Man,” a figure from Daniel, emphasizing his role in the salvation and restoration of humanitv. Mark’s portrayal suggests that the parousia will occur within the lifetimes of Jesus’ first followers, indicated by signs such as the blooming fig tree. While the exact timing remains unknown-known only to the Father-Jesus emphasizes the truth of his predictions, warning against speculation. Following the destruction of the temple, the early expectation of an imminent return diminished, with later gospels attempting to moderate Mark’s direct assertions about the timing. Ultimately, Christ’s death and resurrection are central to his triumph, marking the significance of the parousia as a future event presided over by Jesus as Lord of history., a history which with its linear movement will one day have its end. And it is a history over which Christ himself presides.The final word will be his.
As the liturgical year comes to an end, the Church traditionally focuses our attention to the end of history. Both the Book of Daniel and the Gospel of Mark address this topic, with the scenarios in each emphasizing God’s final word. Meanwhile, as the author of Hebrews reminds us, Christ, our high priest in the heavenly sanctuary, continues to intercede for us. Maranatha!
Amen!
