Wednesday, November 23, 2022

 Wednesday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

(Revelation 15:1-4; Luke 21:12-19)

As the seer nears the end of his Revelation, he has favorable news to report.  In today’s passage he sees seven angels carrying seven bowls of plagues that will wipe out Christian persecutors.  Like the ten plagues liberated the Israelites in Egypt, the seven plagues of the Apocalypse will crush Roman oppression.

But before the plagues take their toll, John reports a heavenly recital evoking more memories of Passover.  Those who have come through the trials with intact innocence play the victory song of Moses.  They use harps -- instruments of sweet, peaceful sounds. 

Sometimes the Book of Revelation is exploited to defend anger and revenge.  But its message is deeper and more subtle than the wrathful images it contains.  It tells of God’s care for those who do His will.  It promotes both righteous living and turning to God for help.  It endeavors to free us from worry when we face challenges.  It assures that God is ready to help us when we call on Him.

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