Wednesday of the Thirty-third Week in Ordinary Time
(Revelation 4:1-11; Luke 19:11-28)
What does heaven look like?
Today’s first reading gives an idea using symbols. It is the worship of God (who is not pictured
because He is so holy). Twenty-four elders
on thrones symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel along with the twelve
apostles comprise the first line of praise. Then there are the seven spirits of
God, appearing as torches, stand in wait of a command. They are related to the gifts of the Holy
Spirit that prompt us to do good.
The four living creatures resembling a lion, a calf, a man,
and an eagle denote the best of creation – nobility, strength, insight, and
swiftness. They are covered with eyes to
indicate God’s care for creation. These images
have been used for the four evangelists.
Their worship specifies gratitude for all creation.
At mass on Sunday, we form a body that also gives praise to
God for creation. We thank God for the
goods of the earth, the sea, and the skies.
We worship Him as well for the spiritual help that He sends our way. Most of all, we honor God for His Son who
saved us from our folly in the created order.
Revelation’s attention turns to him in its next section.
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