Truly, the Scriptures and Tradition of the Church bring us a hopeful message. One might be caught up with fright at the thought of the end of time on earth. However, it is not the purpose of today’s scriptures to frighten you or predict the specific end of time. Rather, we are to be encouraged.

The Book of Daniel and the thirteenth chapter of Mark’s Gospel have components of what is known as “apocalyptic literature.” Apocalyptic writings reveal or disclose truths not apparent to others living at the time of their writing. Such are meant to encourage the oppressed community they are written to. The readings we have today were written at a time of persecution and contain a message that is meant to encourage people to hold onto their faith. God will not abandon us.

The Book of Daniel makes clear people with insight to the Lord will have a good eternal life. They will arise to this, “But the wise shall shine brightly like the splendor of the firmament, and those who lead the many to justice shall be like stars forever.”

Scripture and Tradition lead us as Roman Catholic Christians to know there are the “four last things”. They are death, judgement, heaven and hell. The Creed we pray every Sunday says, “[he] will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and the life of the world to come.” Now, realize we do not know when the end will come as mentioned above. The gospel passage makes this clear, “But of that day or hour, no one knows.” Rather than predict the time of “the end” it registers urgency.

It is urgent at any time to begin to live a life that recognizes Jesus as the one sent by the Father to show us a way of life that opens us to the Father’s grace. And, once open to that grace to live serving God by serving others. This causes all to have fullness and fulfillment in a community of faith, that is the Church founded by Jesus Christ himself on Peter the Rock. Mark grabs attention through the use of spectacular terms and images so that we will not waste time choosing to live in Grace. Salvation is the promise of God. Do not delay taking God up on His promise.

People who have insight recognize God’s urgency in calling us to His love. They arise to the call and rise with Christ. Once each person rises to the call, he or she finds fear melts away. All people find comfort in the community of faith that supports faithful living. Together we discover all will be well.