The Word Of Our God Will Stand Forever

 

Every word of God proves true.

Reflection on Today’s Readings, Friday of 34th Week in Ordinary Time, Year I, December 1st, 2023
Texts: Daniel 7:2-14; Psalm Daniel 3; Luke 21:29-33 

Jesus Christ reminds us, today, that the only thing that remains forever is His words. This is because He is God. In the words of prophet Isaiah: “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever” (40:8). St. Peter says the word is the gospel of Christ. He puts it thus: “’But the word of the Lord remains forever.’ And this word is the good news that was preached to you” (1Pet. I:25). Every other things in this world passes away except the word of God. Jesus says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” 

What does it mean to us that the word of God does not pass away? It means it is true and real; it is beyond the realm of vanity. The word of God is reliable, cannot fail us. The wise says, “Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him” (Prov. 30:5). Whoever holds on to it we never be disappointed. It is an assurance that the word of God has power to save. It is an invitation to hold on to the word of God. In the words of the Lord: “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God’” (Mt. 4:4).

The kingdom of man will fail us and disappoint us

Living by the word of God is the way we can reign with Him when He comes. He assures us, today, that His kingdom is near. It is a reminder that His kingdom will not fail to come. He reminds us that successive kingdoms of man will pass away. This means the kingdom of man is vanity upon vanity; it is not true and real. The kingdom of man will fail us and disappoint us. This has been the reality of our world; no man can solve our problem, no man can save us. It is God who saves. 

The failure in the kingdom of man is a sign that the kingdom of God is near. Jesus Christ says, "Look at the fig tree, and all the trees; as soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near.” The vision of Daniel also affirms that successive kingdoms of man will pass and then, the kingdom of God will come. 

Prayer 

God our Father, thank You for Your word which endures forever; it is a sure anchor of faith and hope, grant that we may live it everyday of our lives. Amen  

Happy New Month! We finally stepped into the last month of the year. As we have witnessed the beginning of the month may see the end and enter into the New Year. May the month bring us comfort and peace. Amen 

Fr. Andrew Olowomuke