Today is the first Sunday of Advent, which is the beginning of the liturgical calendar. Through the cycle of the liturgical year, the mystery of Christ unfolds, celebrating all He did for us and calling us again and again to live more fully, more deeply, with Him, in Him, and through Him.
Advent is a season of preparation for celebrating the first coming of Jesus, in the Nativity, but it is also a season for preparing for His second coming, in the Apocalypse. The readings for today’s Mass (graphic and link below) are all about the End Times.
Interestingly, the Gospel reading includes my favorite Rapture passage: “So will it be also at the coming of the Son of Man. Two men will be out in the field; one will be taken, and one will be left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken, and one will be left. Therefore, stay awake!” – Matthew 24:39-41
I’ve heard Catholics pooh-poohing Rapture teachings, saying the passages cited refer to the Final Judgment. But Jesus Himself told us (Matt 25:31-46) that, at the very end, everyone will be compelled to appear before the Throne. I don’t see how that can be the same event He spoke of in Matthew 24, when the angels will go out and gather the elect, leaving some behind.
- https://www.usccb.org/prayer-worship/liturgical-year
- https://www.churchpop.com/2016/11/30/the-end-is-near-the-apocalyptic-meaning-of-advent/
- https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/112716.cfm
SUNDAY NEWS: Yeah, no. The holiday weekend isn’t over yet!
GRAMMY NOTES: This reminds me of a time when a bachelor friend visited on his way home from helping his sister out after childbirth. He had been largely in charge of a 2 yo for a week. His summary: “It’s a good thing they’re so adorable when they’re asleep.”
SHORTS:
CLICK https://www.facebook.com/reel/509947860894364 to see “Nice work, Penny.”
CLICK https://www.facebook.com/reel/673425930603098 for parenting wisdom.
CLICK https://www.facebook.com/reel/653941129443477/ for life wisdom.
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