Message of Abbot Paul - Sunday 13th November 2022

As we come to the end of the liturgical year, we have begun reading apocalyptic texts from the Bible, texts that speak of the end of this age, final judgement and the recapitulation of all things in Christ. Many of these passages can be quite frightening to read and I must confess that I have never been drawn to them. We all accept that life, as we know it in this world, must come to an end and that the Lord will weigh up the good and the bad we did. My own hope is that I can get at least a toe nail into Purgatory. That will be enough to get on the road that leads to ultimate salvation and eternal life. God is shown to be merciful and just for that is how Jesus reveals him to us. We are taught of the Four Last Things in Christian Eschatology: Death, Judgement, Heaven and Hell, and we would do well from time to time to meditate of these ultimate realities. I find it helpful during such meditation to ask myself what do I truly want. What is my dream for eternity, for God who knows my inmost thoughts knows exactly what I hope and long for, the deepest yearnings of my soul.

 

​In today’s Gospel passage from Luke, (Lk 25: 5-19), we find Jesus talking of the Temple in Jerusalem, reminding those who listen that this magnificent building will collapse and fall and be no more. No matter how fine it is or richly decorated, it remains a material thing, and so, in the words of Jesus, “the time will come when not a single stone will be left on another: everything will be destroyed.” However, Jesus warns his followers that before this comes to pass, they will be persecuted for their faith and for their fidelity to him. The history of the world has known several ages of martyrs. I wonder whether we are about to pass through another one very soon. Fortunately, only God knows, so we need not worry ourselves wondering when and how. In fact, as Jesus says, “that will be your opportunity to bear witness.” We need not be well prepared. Jesus once more: “Keep this carefully in mind: you are not to prepare your defence, because I myself shall give you an eloquence and a wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to resist or contradict.” Jesus will be with us and he will keep us safe in his heavenly Father’s arms. No matter who opposes us and what they plan to do against us, we need not fear. “You will be hated by all men on account of my name, but not a hair of your head will be lost. Your endurance will win you your lives.”