Homily: Feast of St. Elizabeth of Hungary
Feast of St. Elizabeth of Hungary (Rev. 5:1-10) “The Lamb of God”
The last few days we have been reading from the Book of Revelation. This work of the Bible is highly symbolic. A scroll appears. What was it that was written on this scroll. We could say that what was written on the scroll with all its seals was the truths necessary for salvation. No one can unroll the scroll containing divine revelation. No one is virtuous enough. No one is strong enough.
But then we hear of a lamb appearing. The lamb has seven horns. Horns were a symbol of strength and power. The number seven represents perfection. The lamb was omnipotent. The Lamb could break open the scroll that others could not.
Who was the lamb? The lamb was Jesus Christ. Jesus never referred to himself as a lamb, but others did. John the Baptist referred to Jesus as the “lamb who takes away the sins of the world.” The lamb bears the wounds of the passion. Jesus is the only one that has the virtue to open the scroll of truth and reveal its contents.
What should all this mean to us? Like all apocalyptic liturgy the vision of the lamb and the scroll can seem ominous. Will the message contained in the scroll be one of condemnation? Is a reconning going to take place? The message is the message of the Gospel. The Gospel message is not primarily about judgement. No, the message of Jesus is one of mercy. Jesus’ life was all about victory, victory over sin and death.
We can trust that Jesus wants what is best for us. As we move to the end of the year, we become more and more reflective. We ask questions about the meaning of life. Where is our ultimate destination? Our purpose is to live with God forever in paradise.
Jesus came to show us the way. All we need to do is follow him. He is our way our truth our life. We can be confident in the charity of the Lord.
Reflection Questions:
1. Am I intimidated by the Book of Revelation? Why?
2. Is the Book of Revelation about the judgement we will receive? If not, what is it about?
Dear Parishioners,
A number of children are still registering for our religious education classes on Sundays. We now have over one hundred students signed up. Many need sacraments. We are pleased that there is this hunger for sacramental grace. It does become a problem, though, when parents wait too long to register their children.
Sacraments are usually received late in the spring. We need to have time for their formation. If you were thinking about registering your children for religious education, sign up today. Just call our office. Otherwise, your children might have to wait another year before they can receive the sacraments of initiation.
May Our Lady of Peace pray for or fractured world.
Fr. Mark