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Thursday, November 28, 2013

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Daniel 6:12-28
Daniel 3:68-74
Luke 21:20-28

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fear, faith, and the end of the world

"Men will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the earth." —Luke 21:26

On this Thanksgiving Day, the Lord reminds us of the last day, which can be the worst day in history or the greatest Thanksgiving Day. At the very end, people will be so stressed out that they will drop dead because of fear. However, we who love the Lord will "have confidence on the day of judgment; for our relation to this world is just like His (1 Jn 4:17). The Lord will make "all things work together for the good of those who love Him" (Rm 8:28).

This promise especially applies to the end of the world. When the world ends, we will have reason to thank the Lord, stand up straight, and raise our heads high, for our ransom will be near at hand (Lk 21:28). When the world ends, Jesus will return and we will be caught up in the clouds to meet Him in the air (1 Thes 4:17). We will see Him face to face (1 Cor 13:12) and live with Him forever. We will sit forever with Jesus on His throne (Rv 3:21). He will shepherd us, lead us to springs of life-giving water, and wipe every tear from our eyes (Rv 7:17).

At the very end of the end, we will break out in song: "Alleluia! The Lord is King, our God, the Almighty! Let us rejoice and be glad, and give Him glory! For this is the wedding day of the Lamb" (Rv 19:6-7). Maranatha! Come, Lord Jesus! May the world end this Thanksgiving Day or as soon as possible.

Prayer:  Father, may I hasten the coming of the kingdom by my repentance, evangelization, holiness, and intercession (2 Pt 3:12).

Promise:  "He is a Deliverer and Savior, working signs and wonders." —Dn 6:28

Praise:  Scott and Timothy founded their business with Jesus Christ as the Cornerstone. Despite the advice of potential investors, they continue to operate in a proudly Christian company.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, May 22, 2013

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