First Reading: Isaiah 51:4–6
Epistle: Jude 20–25
Gospel: Mark 13:24–37
On this the Last Sunday of the Church Year, we are reminded of the end of all things, for we will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds ( Gospel, Mk 13:26). Jesus’ purpose in these end times is to “gather his elect” (13:27) and to announce the deliverance of God’s elect. The salvation of the Lord will last “forever” and his “righteousness will never be dismayed” ( Old Testament, Is 51:6). So, “keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life” ( Epistle, Jude 21) in the “new heaven and a new earth” ( Introit, 2 Pet 3:13).