For all of the fervent millenarian speculation that Revelation has sparked through the centuries, its fundamental message is one of hope, consolation, and justice for the suffering. The martyrs will be restored, and all will be judged according to their deeds. The future belongs not to Roman power, violence, and propaganda, but rather to the new Jerusalem, the new heaven and new earth infused with divine love and divine justice. As the responsorial psalm reminds us today, “God lives among his people,” and ultimately God will reign. 

Why, then, is such a message couched in such violent language? Perhaps because the principalities and powers are eternally in rebellion against God’s loving will. Nearly two millennia after the apocalyptic revelation to John of Patmos, we too live in a world marked by destructive war, refugee displacement, disregard for human dignity, religious persecution, political corruption and deceit, and an unprecedented climate crisis. If our souls are not “yearning and pining for the courts of the Lord,” we must not be paying attention.

Advent gives us a chance to wake up. This liturgical season, so often overlooked in the rush to Christmas, is marked by a fervent spirit of eschatological longing, hope, and expectation. And to echo today’s gospel, this season is now near! May today’s readings help us prepare our hearts for Advent and for the coming of Jesus, for our redemption really is at hand.