The Word This Week ~ 2 November 2014
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First Reading: Apocalypse 7:2-4, 9-14
This reading uses dramatic imagery in order to say something about the eschaton (the end time). The focus of the eschatological scene is the sealing by the living God is not to shield them from the destruction of the four angels who will devastate both land and sea but rather it is to
strengthen them as they go through this impending disaster.
Second Reading: 1 John 3:1-3.
A language of hope is expressed in this reading. The hope for our future is rooted in our here and now. It is now that God; our Father has lavished great love on us: his children. We need not wait for life beyond death to live as children of God. By questioning now ‘how is one to be (come) A CHILD OF God?’ our future hope to be like God begins.
Gospel Reading: Matthew 5:1-12
The Beatitudes are the focus of today’s Gospel reading. Jesus begins to teach the crowds and his disciples by saying ‘Blessed ate the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.’ He continues with the well-known formula, ‘Blessed are X, for they shall Y.’ In each beatitude, Jesus
teaches the characteristic traits of one who belongs to the kingdom of heaven. He challenges the hearers of his words, to live these principles in their lives by their actions. With the Beatitudes, a promise of future reward has been given: for those who are (become) examples of living this
teaching, have sought in the here and now a right relationship with God and with others.
Published Fri 31st Oct 2014 12:46:29