Today’s readings carry a sobering, apocalyptic tone. In the first reading, the prophet Daniel recounts a terrifying dream of four monstrous beasts—symbols of oppressive kingdoms that rise and fall before the coming of Christ. The footnotes in the Catholic Bible interpret these beasts as representing the turbulent history of the Jewish people before the birth of the Messiah. Yet the dream ends not in despair, but in hope: a vision of “one like a Son of Man” who is given everlasting dominion—a clear foreshadowing of Christ.

Jesus, the Son of Man, speaks to our fears with compassion. He tells us, “Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6:34). But He also warns us not to be spiritually complacent. In Matthew 16:3 and Luke 12:56, He rebukes those who fail to interpret the spiritual realities behind worldly events, urging us to “discern the signs of the times.”

So what are we to do?

In John 14:15-17, Jesus offers both instruction and consolation: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always—the Spirit of Truth…”

This is our path forward. We are called to love Christ by living his commandments—not just in word, but in action. That means examining our lives, repenting of sin, and seeking renewal. We must call upon the Spirit of Truth, primarily through the Eucharist, the sacraments, and prayer, so that the Holy Spirit may guide us to do what God asks of us: to bring his Kingdom into the troubled times we inhabit.

The world may tremble, but the Spirit remains. Let us be vigilant, faithful, and ready.

Let Us Pray:

Lord God, our creator and Redeemer, in the revelation of your law to your people of old, you prepared for the coming of your Christ. In learning and treasuring more profoundly your commands, we have a light to make known your loving will. Granted and adhering to your word and frequenting your sacraments, we may grow in the riches of your grace and possess true joy of heart. Amen. (Prayer from “Praise God in His Holy Place” by Father Bernard J. Camire SSS)