The Fifth Sunday of Easter

Today's first reading was from the book of Revelations, a book often used by people to try and predict the end of the world. However, in his homily, our pastor pointed out that the purpose of Revelations is not to predict the future, but to provide comfort to those who have been persecuted for their faith. He reminded us that Jesus specifically tells us that no one can predict the time or circumstances of His return. Thus, those who try to use Revelations in such a way are clearly following a false path.

There was another modern Catholic scholar (whose name escapes me) who wrote about Revelations not being about the future, but about our present. He particularly noted that portions of the Catholic mass use specific sections of Revelations in the Liturgy of the Eucharist, such as during the Holy, Holy, Holy. In this sense, Revelations is about the current Church, and we take part in the visions revealed to John on a regular basis.

Despite some of the fearful images in John's writing, Revelations is ultimately a story of hope in the face of adversity. As I have often seen Revelations used as a tool to instill fear, I deeply appreciate these insights into the final book of the Bible. Too many people throughout history have used the writings of John to justify exclusion even though Jesus' message, as shown through today's Gospel, focuses on broadening our circle of love.