He is Near: Finding Hope and Strength in Faith
He is Near
Dear brothers, peace and well-being.
Not everything is lost. When evil seems to win, the light of hope shines brighter. This is the message from today’s first reading, which describes the final time when true natures will be revealed. The conflict against evil will turn into an open battle, and God’s people will receive special protection from the archangel Saint Michael. This will be a time of great distress yet also of salvation for the faithful.
The Lord knows each of us by name because He loves us, and our names are written in His book. He will not forget us. The transition from time to eternity will occur, anticipating the universal resurrection where each person will receive their eternal fate based on their actions and merits. The wise and righteous, those who have followed the path of holiness, will shine with eternal glory.
The first reading gives a specific call: “Teach justice to the multitudes.” This may feel overwhelming at first, but if we think of “multitude” as the anarchists did—”two is already a multitude”—it feels more achievable. We can contribute to renewing the Church by sharing our faith, our love for the Church, and our sense of community with our generation and those to come. Faith is a flame that ignites another flame. Years ago, I was confirmed, as many of you were too. Many people helped me take this step. It made me realize my duty to light the flame of others to keep Christ’s light alive in the world. This journey continues today.
The second reading addresses why sin still exists in the world, not just among non-believers but also Christians. The author of the Letter to the Hebrews reminds us that, despite the fate of all evil foes being sealed, they have not yet been fully subjected under Christ’s feet. We must wait for His victory to be fully revealed. This is another reason not to despair. Evil has already been defeated by Christ’s death and resurrection. Even if evil persists, we should not be troubled. To panic over a defeated enemy shows weak faith.
The Bible presents various texts speaking about trials and tribulations at different life stages or in a nation’s history. To face these crises, the Gospel of Mark offers calls for faithfulness and vigilance so we do not falter.
The message of the Gospel is never solely about doom. Even in times of disaster, hope remains. “When these things begin to happen, stand up and lift your heads, because your redemption is near” (Luke 21:28). As bad as things may seem or as much violence exists, while the non-believer succumbs to despair, we, the believers, can stand firm amid trials, seeing the seeds of a future joy, the birth of a new humanity.
Today’s readings are not bleak. They show the wise as shining stars. They depict Christ as the Victor, awaiting His enemies’ defeat. He comes with power and glory to gather His elect from all corners, the source of our hope.
These readings invite us to be alert, seeking signs of God’s Kingdom daily. The Lord often knocks at our door, but we may not always be ready to open. There are times of longing, joy, forgiveness, and moments to choose between light and darkness. Each Christian knows this struggle personally. Thus, vigil is crucial to uphold the good fight of faith. This battle is won in Christ, who continues to strengthen us against evil, expanding God’s Kingdom until the day known only to the Father.
Last Sunday’s word said, “God may knock at the door of the poor.” God tells us, “Give and you will receive.” He is near. Let us remember this. May His Spirit of love and strength make us authentic Christians, more present in human history and more inclined toward the day of God.
Your brother in faith,
Alejandro Carbajo