Wednesday 26th November – Wednesday of week 34 of the year
Reflections: Apocalypse 15: 1-4
AFTER THE GREAT TRIBULATION
The Christian faith may seem scary sometimes because it teaches of (redemptive) suffering. Christian teaching goes on to indicate clearly that only a few will be saved as narrow is the way that leads to life and only a few find it (Matthew 7:14). So, the questions my Atheist friends ask, (and these questions have often troubled me) are: “so, your Christ died supposedly to save the world, and yet, only a few of that world will be saved; and even that few will come out of great tribulation? Must the believer suffer pain, betrayal, loss, self denial, restrain and even death for salvation to be accomplished in them?”
Today’s reading puts the concept of suffering in its proper perspective. Suffering is a result of the ongoing battle between good are inevitable; suffering is inevitable. But, the Psalm of today shows us that God comes to our aid, with and evil in our world; the battle between light and darkness that resulted from the fall of man. Just like in every war, casualties His mighty arm to win us victory. The Apostle Peter urges us to unite our suffering with the ultimate suffering of Christ (1 Peter 2: 20-23) first for our own salvation and then the salvation of the world. The suffering we undergo as children of God is ultimately redemptive.
The end of the suffering of the blessed is certain. It does not end in sorrow, but in joy. Its end is eternal life. Our Catholic Christian faith does not assure us of a smooth sail because those are the words of our Saviour: “…in the world you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16: 33). We are assured however of a safe landing and a glorious harbour.
PRAYER: Lord, preserve those whom you have called, that through our partaking of the suffering of Christ your son, we may be brought to salvation. Amen.
KNOW YOUR FAITH: CCC 1521 – By the grace of the sacrament of Anointing of the sick…suffering, which is the consequence of original sin, acquires a new meaning; it becomes a participation in the saving work of Christ
HIDE A TREASURE: “You will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But, not a hair of your head will perish. By your endurance, you will gain your lives.” Luke 21:19 RSV-CE
Readings for Today: Apocalypse 15: 1- 4; Psalm 98:1-3, 7-9; Luke 21:12-19
Catholic Devotional for Youth 
The world system is subjected to the bondage of corruption. To live Holy entails fierce opposition to the corrupt order against the spirit that rules in corruption. This spirit is at war with every son (born again by the Holy Spirit). our Victory is assured in Christ Jesus. cheers.