Daniel 12: 1-13; Psalm 15(16): 5.8-11; Hebrews 10: 11-14.18; Mark 13: 24-32
The Book of Daniel belongs to “apocalyptic” literature, which secretly looks forward to the day of the Lord at the end of history, when all will be made right. It was written about 165 BC to strengthen the Jews who were suffering bitter persecution. The hero, Daniel, is saved by adhering to his faith in face of many trials. Daniel is promised that the just will live for ever, an early expectation of resurrection.
The psalm rejects idolatry and expresses confidence in the Lord, who will bring us to everlasting life.
Our final reading from the Letter to the Hebrews also looks forward to the end time. The daily animal sacrifices in the Temple could not take sins away. They have now been replaced by the one sacrifice of Christ, who now sits enthroned until he comes again. His perfect sacrifice has made forgiveness available to all. No further sacrifices will ever be needed.
An earlier chapter in the Book of Daniel, which we will hear next week, describes a vision of “One like a Son of Man” coming to rule God’s kingdom on earth. In today’s gospel Jesus graphically describes the heavenly signs that will accompany his return as the “Son of Man”.
Psalm Response: Preserve me, God, I take refuge in you.
(Daniel 12: 1-13; Psalm 15(16): 5.8-11; Hebrews 10: 11-14.18; Mark 13: 24-32)