“THE END” (RV 22:13)
“I will make an end of them.” –Deuteronomy 32:26
God’s Word states: “In whatever you do, remember your last days, and you will never sin” (Sir 7:36). The prince of Tyre apparently did not consider his last days, for he was puffed up with pride. So Ezekiel prophesied that the prince’s last days would be filled with reminders that he is not a god, but a mere man (Ez 28:7ff).
The psalm response today likewise reminds the proud that their final days might be “close at hand,” and possibly even “rushing upon them” (Dt 32:35). In today’s Gospel passage, St. Peter also had thoughts about how things would end up for him after he had given up everything to follow Jesus (Mt 19:27).
Jesus Himself encourages us that the one who perseveres to the end will be saved (see Lk 21:19). Rather than focusing on ourselves, God’s Word counsels us to “keep our eyes fixed on Jesus” (Heb 12:2; see also Heb 3:1). Jesus is the End (Rv 1:8; 22:13). St. Paul testifies: “I do not think of myself as having reached the finish line. I give no thought to what lies behind but push on to what is ahead. My entire attention is on the finish line…life on high in Christ Jesus” (Phil 3:13-14).
Therefore, focus only on the ending that really matters — doing whatever Jesus tells us today and forever (Jn 2:5).
PRAYER: Father, I will praise You in all circumstances and leave my life in Your loving hands.
PROMISE: “Everyone who has given up home, brothers or sisters, father or mother, wife or children or property for My sake will receive many times as much and inherit everlasting life.” –Mt 19:29
PRAISE: The desire to attend Mass was so strong in young Thomas that he arose early to attend 7AM Mass before going to his high school classes.
