Reflection:

In today’s Gospel there is a mixture of two distinct prophecies of Jesus: one of the destruction of Jerusalem; the other of the second coming of Christ at the end of the time.

Jerusalem had been laid waste by the Romans by the time the gospel of Luke was written. Jesus speaks of the fall of Jerusalem and warns that the time of desolation is near, and the people must flee to the mountains. He despairs about those who may not be able to flee, the pregnant women, the very old, the most vulnerable.

Isn’t it usually these people who bear the brunt of most wars and calamities?

The signs that signal the end of the world are announced. These will cause terror and confusion among all earth’s peoples. But believers need have no fear. The readers of Luke’s gospel expected the Second Coming of Christ in their lifetime, but as we know it was not to be.

As Advent approaches let us live in anticipation of the celebration of the birth of the Christ child and, also recall that we await the glorious return of Christ — when he will return at the end of time to establish justice and righteousness and vindicate all who have been faithful to him. His judgement is a sign of hope for those who trust in him. So, as we prepare ourselves for Christmas let the thought of Christ’s second coming gives us hope of our salvation.

Joanne McGrath is a parishioner of St Brigid’s Marrickville and a Passionist Companion.