the end
"Lo, the day is coming, blazing like an oven." —Malachi 3:19
As we end the Church's year, the Church proclaims what Jesus has revealed about the end of the world. We Christians will suffer persecution as never before in history (Lk 21:12). The antichrist and his apostate followers (see 2 Thes 2:3) will get "parents, brothers, relatives and friends" to turn over to the authorities their Christian family members and friends (Lk 21:16). We will be hated by all because of our love for Jesus (Lk 21:17).
After this massive persecution, "nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, plagues, and famines in various places — and in the sky fearful omens and great signs" (Lk 21:10-11). We will see wars and tragedies as never before.
Then the whole earth will be burned up (2 Pt 3:7, 10, 12). "The proud and all evildoers" will be burned with the earth (Mal 3:19).
Finally, those who fear and love the Lord (Mal 3:20) will lift up their eyes to see Jesus "coming on a cloud with great power and glory" (Lk 21:27). "Those who have died in Christ will rise first. Then we, the living, the survivors, will be caught up with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Thenceforth we shall be with the Lord unceasingly. Console one another with this message" (1 Thes 4:16-18).
Prayer: Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus!
Promise: "Take care not to be misled." —Lk 21:8
Praise: Praise Jesus, risen and glorified! You have conquered sin and death, and have ransomed us with Your blood. Alleluia!
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Robert A. Stricker, May 8, 2001
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, May 18, 2001