the man and the beasts
"As the visions during the night continued, I saw One like a Son of Man coming, on the clouds of heaven." —Daniel 7:13
The writer of the book of Daniel apparently believed that history is not so much human as beastly. Our rulers have been like lions, bears, leopards, or monsters (see Dn 7:3ff). In their power, they were often inhuman. Of course, all governments give the impression of being human, but they don't always act that way (see Dn 7:8). Their behavior shouts their inhumanity as they manipulate the masses, oppress the poor, kill children in the womb, and put power and productivity above human dignity.
As we live on in this world's system, we get used and abused. We wish we had a way out. The good news is that there is one Ruler (see 1 Tm 6:15) Who will respect us in accord with our human dignity. He calls Himself the Son of Man (see Dn 7:13). He is the King of kings and the Lord of lords (Rv 19:16). He is Jesus Christ.
He was severely opposed by the beastly system. Although He was completely innocent, He was tortured, crucified, and murdered. He was treated so inhumanely that one could hardly tell He was human (Is 52:14). Yet in fact He is not only human but divine.
Only God will respect our human dignity. In thanksgiving and love, give your life to Jesus, Son of Man and Son of God.
Prayer: Father, I decide to end this year no longer living for myself but for Jesus.
Promise: "The heavens and the earth will pass away, but My words will not pass." —Lk 21:33
Praise: St. Catherine is said to have had a vision of Baby Jesus before her Baptism. After her Baptism He introduced her as His bride. God used her wisdom to convert 50 pagan philosophers.
Reference: (For related teaching, order our tape on Developing a Deep Personal Relationship with Jesus on audio AV 52-1 or video V-52.)
Rescript: †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Bishop-Elect, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 26, 2011 (for 10-1-2011 through 11-29-2011) and May 26, 2011 (for 11-30-2011)
The Nihil Obstat ("Permission to Publish") is a declaration that a book or pamphlet is considered to be free of doctrinal or moral error. It is not implied that those who have granted the Nihil Obstat agree with the contents, opinions, or statements expressed.