Fr. Craig’s Contemplations

Fr. Craig’s Contemplations

Dear Friends,

For this 33rd Week in Ordinary Time, our Lord Jesus draws from the book of the Prophet Daniel, describing the final tribulation. Yet even during the “final tribulation” we can “hold on” to the assurances of God’s mercy. So, most importantly, we are called to live in HOPE not fear. Yes, during the times of the “final tribulation” there will be “false messianic claims.” Jesus plainly states to His disciples from 2,000 years ago, and us today, to not believe such claims. Our faith teaches us, Jesus’ true coming will be absolutely unmistakable. And, it is only from our faith, that we can have the grace to be watchful. Jesus has given us Sacred Scripture, the Sacraments, our Church, and our prayer(s) which is what we will need most to endure.

Some scholars believe that the “final tribulation” happened in 70 AD with the destruction of the great Jewish temple. However, St. Mark hints at other levels of meaning. Jesus’ words were also fulfilled in part at His crucifixion when the sun was darkened in the middle of the day. Always remember, when reading St. Mark’s Gospel, these different levels (of meaning) are closely related. That is why we must live in HOPE not fear, as our church has always taught, Jesus (the Son of Man) will come at the end of time, and evil will be defeated once and for all.

In the tenth chapter from the Letter to the Hebrews, we hear the conclusion of the central teaching in the letter to the Hebrews, which provides all of us the essential teachings on Jesus’ priesthood and sacrifice. First and foremost, the writer of the letter stresses the differences between the old covenant Priesthood and Jesus as Priest. Remember, the old covenant Priesthood, would have been the repeated Levitical sacrifices; the Priesthood of our Lord Jesus is the once-for-all-sacrifice of Christ. Jesus in the sacrifice of bread and wine, gives us the memorial sacrifice which as the Most Holy Eucharist takes away sins. The ancient Levitical sacrifice (known as the tamid) which was offered twice daily, did not take away sins. Jesus to this VERY day transmits to many the grace and power of His victory: He “lives forever to make intercession” and so is able to “help those who are being tested” – again this should evoke our inner response to live in HOPE not fear. As we prepare for the great Solemnity of Jesus Christ the King, let us live in Hope!

May God bless you!
Fr. Craig