Homily for Thursday of the 34th week in ordinary time year II/(ST. ANDREW DUNG-LAC & COMPANIONS)

HOMILY FOR THURSDAY OF THE THIRTY FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME, YEAR II 

(ST. ANDREW DUNG-LAC & COMPANIONS)

Rev.18:1-2,21-23; 19:1-3,9a; Luke 21:20-28

In the gospel reading of today, Jesus gave a description of events that will accompany the destruction of Jerusalem. Surprisingly, Jesus also told his disciples that these same events will be for them a sign that their redemption is drawing near. The end will concern all but the destruction that will affect Jerusalem will not be perceived by the disciples.

What this teaches us is that the judgment of God is neither condemnation nor commendation in itself; it is simply justice. Yet, the judgment will bring about condemnation and commendation. Now, whether we will be condemned or commended will be dependent on our preparation.

Little wonder the psalmist noted that those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb are blessed because they were found worthy. Beloved, one thing we can learn here is that death is not always detestable for the dying. In as much as we mourn over the dead, our faith teaches us that they can be somewhere better; that is, they could be better off than us.

So as the liturgical year comes to an end in two day's time, it reminds us that our end is sure to come. This truth should not threaten us but urge us into living lives of proper preparation so that whenever the Lord comes, it will mean for us the dawning of our redemption.

Today we celebrate the memorial of St. Andrew Dung-lac and companions. They were Jesuits missionaries who opened a mission at Da Nang in Japan in 1615. It was a time of fierce persecution that attempted to wipe off every trace of Christianity in the community. They were tortured and eventually killed for refusing to apostatize by trampling on the crucifix. Andrew and his companions saw the true beauty of the Cross on account of it's salvific effect. Truly, the cross is the hinge of our salvation.

Have a nice day