Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Also Read: Mass Readings for 17 November 2024
Gospel: Mark 13: 24-32
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” It’s a promise to the true believer in Jesus Christ. It’s a warning for everyone else.
As we are at the conclusion of the liturgical year, the readings are focusing to the final judgement and eternity. Jesus is once again encouraging us to take his words seriously. The Word of God is here to stay. It is here to stay eternally.
At this juncture, it is fitting that we take an examination of conscience. We need to take an exam of conscience about our approach to the Word of God.
Jesus is the word of God incarnate, and the Bible is the printed form. When we are reading the Bible, we are reading Jesus, we are listening to Jesus talking to us. Read it at any cost.
As you read it, you are familiar with most of it, but read it anyway.
As you read it, you may be distracted, read it anyway.
As you read it, some passages may be hard, read it anyway.
As you read it, some passages may sound strange, read it anyway.
As you read it, some passages may appear harsh, read it anyway.
As you read it, some passages may challenge your world view and your politics, read it anyway.
When you find something interesting, highlight it.
When you have a comment on it, scribble by the side of the page.
When you have a doubt, consult with someone who knows it.
And if you find a particular passage too difficult to read, skip it.
Always try to understand what Jesus is trying to communicate with you.
Indeed, during the Sunday Liturgy, the priest or the deacon breaks the Word of God for you. It is just an introduction. You have to open the Word for yourself, and look for what Jesus is trying to tell you. Each page in the Bible has a message for you. It is an exclusive personal message from God. No one else can give it to you.
Make Bible a part of your daily life. Read at least two chapters. Read every book of the Bible. Each book is there for a purpose. Make sure that you have a strong bond with the Bible.
Jesus will not pass away with time. His words will not pass away. So, build the strongest bond with the Word of God that will not pass away.
Amen.
