Rev 7:2-4,9-14; Ps 23(24):1-6; 1 Jn 3:1-3; Mt 5:1-12
Films about “apocalypses” can lead us to misunderstand the book of Revelation. “Apocalypse” really means “revealing”. Cosmic battles are raging all about us: evil seems to triumph in our world, yet this revelation of Christ gives us confidence (hope) that He will save us. The previous chapter ended by describing the coming terrible day of judgement (Dies irae). But in this chapter there is a pause while the elect – the chosen ones – are sealed with God’s mark to show they will be protected. Not only many from Israel but numberless people from all nations. Our liturgies on earth have an effect in heaven. The chapter ends with the hope faith gives those who repent: “The Lamb … will lead them to springs of life-giving water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes”.
This liturgical Psalm gives the moral requirements for assisting at divine worship, while confirming the hope the just may have in God.
The reading from John’s first letter emphasises that we are already God’s children, but we must try to prepare for the greater joy still to come.
In Matthew’s Gospel the beatitudes bring the Commandments up to date: positive actions, not just avoiding doing wrong, are necessary for us to be counted among the elect.
Psalm Response: Such are the men who seek your face, O Lord.