33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Gospel Bullet Points (Mark 13:24-32)

 (First Reading: Daniel 12:1-3;/ Second Reading: Heb. 10:11-14, 18)

• The gospel reading tells us about the Son of Man when he comes on the last days: “. . . the sun will grow dark, the moon will not give its light, the stars will fall out of the sky and the whole universe will be shaken. Then the people will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.” Nobody knows when the last days will take place. Even the readings do not give a hint as to when will that happen.  The only thing we are sure of is that the last days will come.  
• When will the last days will take place should not be our main concern.  Wisdom consists not in knowing WHEN our end will be. The more important thing to ask is HOW we are using the present and WHAT do we hope to accomplish in the days and years that lie ahead.
• At the last judgment, there will be distress that the world has never ever encountered. But on that day, the just shall shine as brightly as the stars, for all eternity (First reading). 
• Our earthly existence is a preparation for the final coming of Jesus. Let us be vigilant—always doing good and in union with God and with our brothers and sisters (Second reading).