Homily

Thirty-third Sunday of the Year (Year B)

Sunday, 17th November, 2024

READINGS: Daniel 12:1-3; Ps 16:5, 8.9-10.11;
Heb 10:11-14.18; Mk 13:24-32

Rev. Fr. Dr. Titus Imojime

HOW PREPARED ARE WE FOR THE DAY OF THE LORD?

Theme: The Church’s liturgical year ending reminds us to reflect on the End Time and Christ’s Second Coming.

As the Church’s liturgical year concludes, we are reminded to reflect on the End Time and Christ’s Second Coming. It is a moment to assess our readiness for the Day of the Lord, living with vigilance, faith, and trust in God’s plan. Today’s homily centers on this call to reflection, emphasizing the need for repentance, vigilance, and preparation for eternal life.

SCRIPTURAL CONTEXT

First Reading: Daniel 12:1-3
The prophet Daniel foretells a time of distress but assures the faithful of salvation and resurrection. Those who lead others to righteousness will shine like the stars, highlighting the hope of eternal life for the faithful.

Second Reading: Hebrews 10:11-14, 18
St. Paul reminds us of Christ’s perfect sacrifice, made once for all, which sanctifies believers and removes sin. This encourages us to live holy lives in gratitude for Christ’s redemptive work.

Gospel: Mark 13:24-32
Jesus describes apocalyptic signs preceding His Second Coming, emphasizing that only the Father knows the exact time. This calls us to remain vigilant, faithful, and prepared for the unexpected hour of Christ’s return.

Key Points

  1. Live each day according to God’s commandments to avoid fearing the Day of the Lord.
  2. The end of the world should not scare believers but prepare them for salvation.
  3. Christ’s Second Coming will judge the living and the dead.
  4. Ignore speculations about the end time; only God knows the hour.
  5. Repent of sins and cooperate with Christ’s salvation.
  6. Make good use of each day, living in God’s presence and doing good works.
  7. Stay vigilant, prepared for death or the end of the world.

Lessons

  1. Recognize the world’s impermanence.
  2. Prioritize eternal life over worldly attachments.
  3. Use time wisely, doing God’s will.
  4. Be conscious of the last day, asking, “How prepared am I to meet Christ?”

Call to Action

  1. Live in God’s friendship.
  2. Repent and cooperate with Christ’s salvation.
  3. Stay alert, prepared for Christ’s return.
  4. Prioritize eternity over temporary worldly concerns.

Final Blessing:
“May the Good Lord grant us the grace of vigilance and a happy end. Amen!”

This reflection encourages us to make each day a step toward holiness, always prepared to meet the Lord with hearts full of faith and love.