Greetings on this the Friday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: Dn 7:2-14; Daniel 3:75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81; Lk 21:29-33
Notes: Figures title is a pun on the words Fig and Figure.
- Figs are a predominate symbol of Advent.
- Figures are the kings and kingdoms who are terrifying, horrible, and of extraordinary strength; it had great iron teeth with which it devoured and crushed.
- It also figures (USA slang)think, consider, or expect to be the case.
In the reading cycles of the Church (Year A, B, C which starts Sunday), the Sunday Advent readings are always in proximity to the lesson of the Fig Tree.
First Sunday of Advent readings.
- Year A Mt 24, 37-44
- Year B Mk 13, 33-37
- Year C Lk 21, 25-28, 34-36 (this year)
Find the proximity to the Fig Tree.
From the week day readings cycle 1 it is always the Friday before Advent as well.
So we can put some emphasis on this reading today as we prepare for Advent.
First reading
The reading from the Prophet Daniel today gives us an interesting view of simultaneous activity.
- In a vision
- On the plain of time, the ascending and destruction of human kingdoms.
- As I watched
- On the plain of the Eternal, G-d sits in judgement of these kingdoms.
- As the visions during the night continued
One like a son of man coming,
on the clouds of heaven;
When he reached the Ancient One
and was presented before him,
He received dominion, glory, and kingship;
nations and peoples of every language serve him.
His dominion is an everlasting dominion
that shall not be taken away,
his kingship shall not be destroyed.
- Ultimately we may be confident in the Divine Justice that takes away the kingdoms who are terrifying, horrible, and of extraordinary strength; it had great iron teeth with which it devoured and crushed.
- And we hope to be citizens and subjects of the Kingdom and King who rules forever with kindness.
Responsorial Psalm
Give glory and eternal praise to him!
Alleluia Verse
Stand erect and raise your heads
because your redemption is at hand.
Gospel Portion
Jesus told his disciples a parable.
“Consider the fig tree and all the other trees.
- Fig trees that are abundant with fruit and provide are worthy.
- Fig trees that are barren and without merit are to be destroyed.
Jesus promises a kingdom like a fig tree that does not wither or become barren.
“Heaven and earth will pass away,
but my words will not pass away.”
The Arrival – Advent.
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry
Deacon Gerry Palermo 