Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

On November 17

Cycle B

First ReadingDaniel 12:1-3

Daniel prophesies about the judgment of the last days.

Responsorial Psalm 16:5,8,9-10,11

God protects us and shows us the path of life.

Second Reading

Hebrews 10:11-14,18Jesus’ offering for sin has made all to be consecrated perfect forever.

Gospel Reading

Mark 13:24-32Jesus teaches about the signs of the coming of the Son of Man.

Today, on the Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time, we are invited to reflect on powerful readings that address themes of hope, justice, and ultimate salvation. The apocalyptic tone of the readings reminds us of the divine promise of eternal life and the victory of good over evil, even amid challenges and uncertainties. Together, the readings urge us to place our trust in God’s promises and prepare ourselves for the fulfillment of His kingdom.

To fully understand the First Reading from the Book of Daniel (Dn 12:1-3), we need to take into account its literary characteristics. First and foremost, this text is apocalyptic rather than prophetic, a genre typical of times marked by oppression and darkness (persecution). The apocalyptic style uses symbolic language to reveal divine truths about the future, especially the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Consequently, the message here cannot be taken literally; instead, we need to interpret the symbols within their historical and theological context.

Notably, Daniel 12:1-3 moves beyond earthly history, revealing a vision of eternal life. This passage is significant as “the first certain text of the Hebrew Bible that explicitly supports the concept of resurrection” — a bodily return to life after death for individuals. The promise of salvation is illustrated through vivid images, including “coming out unscathed,” “waking up,” and “shining” — each carrying profound theological implications for hope and renewal[1].

The final verse offers a powerful invitation: “Those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever.” This statement provides a key takeaway — to “live in the way of justice.” By embodying justice in our lives, we align ourselves with God’s vision and are promised a future reward where we, too, will shine brightly like stars in eternity.

The Responsorial Psalm proclaims, “You are my inheritance, O Lord!” (Ps 16:5, 8, 9-10, 11). In the context of the apocalyptic tone of the first reading, the psalmist invites us to trust in God’s unwavering presence and protection, affirming that “with him at our right hand, we shall not be disturbed.” This assurance is rooted in the belief that God will not abandon our souls to the netherworld nor allow his faithful ones to undergo corruption. The psalm calls us to embrace a steadfast hope in God as our ultimate inheritance and protector, both now and in eternity.

The Second Reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Heb 10:11-14, 18) presents two central themes: the efficacy of the offerings and the forgiveness of sins.

1. The Efficacy of the Offerings

The passage points out that the priests’ sacrifices “can never take away sins.” In contrast, the singular sacrifice of Jesus has “made perfect forever those who are being consecrated.” This underscores the unique and lasting efficacy of Christ’s sacrifice. In this way, Jesus can be seen as presiding over the final Yom Kippur—the Day of Atonement—when the doors of forgiveness are opened, inviting believers to approach the throne of mercy and receive teshuva (repentance).

2. The Forgiveness of Sins

This passage reflects an evolution in the understanding of forgiveness and salvation, contrasting the ineffectiveness of the ancient rites with the sufficiency of Christ’s unique sacrifice. From a Christian perspective, Jesus has taken away the sins of the world through his life and death, serving as the perfect, all-encompassing sacrifice for atonement. For Christians, therefore, no further sacrifices are necessary; the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross is complete and eternally sufficient for forgiveness.

Today’s Gospel according to Mark (Mk 13:24-32) is an eschatological discourse, connecting with the first reading (cf. Dan 12:1-3) in its focus on the end times and the promise of ultimate salvation. This passage from Mark offers two key points for reflection.

1. The Enduring Word of Jesus

Jesus proclaims, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” This statement emphasizes the eternal nature of Jesus’ teachings, affirming that while everything in creation is temporary, his words stand as a constant truth and source of hope. It reminds us that God’s promises and commandments endure beyond all earthly change and upheaval, offering a firm foundation even in uncertain times.

2. The Mystery of the End Times

Jesus also teaches, “But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” This statement underscores the mystery surrounding the end times. It invites us to a posture of humility, vigilance, and trust in God’s timing, recognizing that the final revelation is beyond human comprehension and control. Rather than focusing on the exact moment of fulfillment, we are called to live each day with readiness and faith, knowing that the unfolding of God’s plan is both certain and ultimately unknowable to us.

In this passage, Jesus’ words call us to rely on the enduring truth of his teachings while humbly entrusting the unknown future to God’s wisdom and timing. Together, these teachings encourage a faith rooted in trust, patience, and unwavering hope.

As we conclude today’s reflection, let us remember the call to live lives of justice, embodying God’s vision through our actions and faith. In a world that is constantly changing, we hold fast to the eternal words of Jesus and trust in God’s wisdom and timing. With hope rooted in Christ’s ultimate sacrifice, we are reminded to live each day in readiness, steadfast in our faith, and assured of the promise that, in God’s presence, we shall shine like the stars in eternity.

[1] Cf. TABET Miguel Ángel, Introducción al Antiguo Testamento. Libros Proféticos, Palabra, Madrid 2009, 392-425.