What does Jesus’ return mean to you? It’s like the kingdom of God, isn’t it? Something we have with us now, but that will only come to fullness at a future date only God knows.

Every year at this time the wisdom of the church invites us to consider the Apocalypse. We can be forgiven our reluctance to take up the topic, as preachers or parishioners. The end of the world is a hazy unreality in the best of times.

My dad’s four sisters are all named Mary. Well, not exactly. The youngest one is named Maureen—which is Mary in Gaelic. They all go by their middle names—in Maureen’s case, Grace, or Gracie. She is my Godmother. She passed away recently, unexpectedly, and far too young. 

When Mother Teresa had to make a speech, she did not use notes or read from a prepared text. To get ready, she would simply withdraw to a church or chapel or other quiet place for a few minutes and pray.

Brothers and sisters, as we prepare to celebrate the sacred mysteries, let us acknowledge our sins and ask for God's forgivness.

Only wonder understands anything.