Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Andrew
Dung Lac, P. & Comps (24th November, 2016) on the Gospel and the
Memorial
Rev 18:1-2.21-23;19:1-3.9;
Ps 99:2-5. (R. Rev 19:9);Lk 21:20-28.
Through the missionary efforts of various religious
families beginning in the sixteenth century and continuing until 1866, the
Vietnamese people heard the message of the gospel, and many accepted it despite
persecution and even death. On June 19, 1988, Pope John Paul II canonized 117
persons martyred in the eighteenth century. Among these were ninety-six
Vietnamese, eleven missionaries born in Spain and belonging to the Order of
Preachers, and ten French missionaries belonging to the Paris Foreign Mission
Society. Among these saints are eight Spanish and French bishops, fifty priests
(thirteen European and thirty-seven Vietnamese), and fifty-nine lay people. These
martyrs gave their lives not only for the Church but for their country as well.[1]
Topic: Worth remembering.
Normally, as the liturgical year comes to an end, the
readings often draw our minds to the end of one thing or another. Today’s
gospel is made up of two sections. In the first (Lk 21:20-24), Jesus foretold the destruction of Jerusalem. And in
the second section (Lk 21:25-28), we
read of the coming of the Son of Man at the peak of those terrible days.
As we approach the end of this liturgical year, I considered
it necessary for us to think towards the end of other things especially our
existence here on earth. Although it may be scaring for some, yet it is a
reality no one has discovered how to avoid. At best, many have only suggested
ways of delaying it and never how to eliminate it.
Have you ever asked yourself what your fate will be after your
sojourn here on earth? This question often gives me sleepless nights because we
often look down on it. That day, each person will stand before God to give
account of him/herself. He is ready to judge the living and the dead, cf. 1Pt 4:5; 2Tim 4:1. And remember, He
will not judge by appearances, cf. Jer
17:10. 20:12.
Bible Reading: Ps
90:1-17.
Thought for today: Where do you prepare for?
Let us pray: Lord, help us to remember always that
life is too short – Amen.
Saint Andrew Dung Lac &
Companions – Pray for us.
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with others if you consider it worthy.
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