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Office Of Readings | Week 32, Monday, Ordinary Time | From A Treatise On Forgiveness By Saint Fulgentius Of Ruspe, Bishop | He Who Conquers Death Shall Not Be Hurt By The Second Death
‘He who conquers death shall not be heard by the second death.’
Saint Fulgentius reminds us that the great transformation of the resurrection begins now, in the hidden conversion of the heart. The ‘first resurrection’ is not merely an image but a real spiritual event: the passage from sin to grace, from darkness to light, from unbelief to faith. In this life, God works the first change within us — a change that prepares and guarantees the glorious change to come.
Fulgentius insists: no one can hope for the incorruptible body of the last day without first receiving the incorruptible heart God offers today. The resurrection of the body crowns the resurrection of the soul. Grace now begins what glory will complete.
This ‘first resurrection’ is not dramatic or visible, like graves opening and bodies rising; it is quieter, deeper, more interior. It is the daily death of sin and the daily rising of virtue. Whenever a heart turns from evil to good, whenever faith awakens, whenever a person abandons what destroys and embraces what is holy — resurrection has already begun.
And because this first resurrection is the work of grace, the ‘second death’ — the permanent loss of communion with God — cannot touch those who belong to Christ. The fearsome images of Revelation exist not to terrify, but to awaken desire, to spur repentance, to urge every soul toward the life Christ freely offers.
Fulgentius’ teaching invites us to hope, not dread. The Church does not simply wait for the last trumpet; she already hears within herself the faint beginning notes of resurrection. The glory to come is assured to those who let God begin His work in them today.
Let us, then, welcome this first resurrection — the rising of the heart — so that the second death has no claim on us, and the eternal life promised to the just may be ours.
From A Treatise On Forgiveness By Saint Fulgentius Of Ruspe, Bishop | He Who Conquers Death Shall Not Be Hurt By The Second Death
In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye as the final trumpet sounds, for the trumpet shall indeed sound, the dead shall rise incorruptible and we shall be changed. In saying ‘we’ Paul is indicating that the gift of that future change will also be given to those who during their time on earth are united to him and his companions by upright lives within the communion of the Church. He hints at the nature of the change when he says: This corruptible body must put on incorruptibility, this mortal body immortality. In order, then, that men may obtain the transformation which is the reward of the just, they must first undergo here on earth a change which is God’s free gift. Those who in this life have been changed from evil to good are promised that future change as a reward.
Through justification and the spiritual resurrection, grace now effects in them an initial change that is God’s gift. Later on, through the bodily resurrection, the transformation of the just will be brought to completion, and they will experience a perfect, abiding, unchangeable glorification. The purpose of this change wrought in them by the gifts of both justification and glorification is that they may abide in an eternal, changeless state of joy.
Here on earth they are changed by the first resurrection, in which they are enlightened and converted, thus passing from death to life, sinfulness to holiness, unbelief to faith, and evil actions to holy life. For this reason the second death has no power over them. It is of such men that the Book of Revelation says: Happy the man who shares in the first resurrection; over such as he the second death has no power. Elsewhere the same book says: He who overcomes shall not be harmed by the second death. As the first resurrection consists of the conversion of the heart, the second death consists of unending torment.
Let everyone, therefore, who does not wish to be condemned to the endless punishment of the second death now hasten to share in the first resurrection. For if any during this life are changed out of fear of God and pass from an evil life to a good one, they pass from death to life and later they shall be transformed from a shameful state to a glorious one.
Christian Prayer With Jesus Christ
Lord Jesus Christ,
You are the Resurrection and the Life.
Awaken within us the first resurrection —
the conversion of heart, the turning from sin,
the rising to faith, hope, and holiness.
Let your grace change us now,
that your glory may transform us then.
Free us from all that leads to death,
and strengthen within us all that belongs to life.
May we live each day
as those who await your coming with joy,
secure in your mercy, confident in your promise,
and eager to be changed into your likeness.
Who live and reign with the Father
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, forever and ever. Amen.
Glossary Of Christian Terms
First Resurrection – The spiritual resurrection that happens in this life when a person is converted from sin to grace and becomes alive in Christ.
Second Death – The final and eternal separation from God after judgment; the ‘death’ that has no end.
Glorification – The final transformation of the body and soul at the resurrection, making the just incorruptible and radiant in God’s presence.
Justification – God’s free gift that makes a sinner righteous by forgiving sin and giving sanctifying grace.
Resurrection of the Body – The Christian belief that all the dead will rise bodily at the end of time, the just to eternal life and the wicked to judgment.
Conversion – The turning of the heart away from sin and toward God; the beginning of the ‘first resurrection.’
The Last Trumpet – Biblical imagery (1 Cor 15:52) referring to the moment of the final resurrection and judgment.
Eternal Life – Sharing forever in the life of God; the ultimate destiny of those united to Christ.
Gospel Reading: Matthew 11:28-30 ‘Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ In this passage, Jesus extends an invitation to all who are weary and burdened. Jesus promises rest and relief, urging us to take his yoke and learn from him. Jesus’ gentle and humble heart offers rest for our souls, emphasizing that his yoke is easy and his burden light. This passage is a reminder of the hope we have in Christ, who offers us rest and peace amid our struggles. Prayer Dear Jesus, In times of uncertainty and despair, I turn to you, the source of all hope. Fill my heart with your hope that transcends understanding. Help me to trust in your promises and to find joy and peace in your presence. May your hope renew my spirit and give me the strength to face each day with confidence and faith. Let your hope shine through me, bringing light to others who are in need. Amen. Personal Reflection What are the situations in your life that seem hopeless? How can you invite Jesus’ hope into these areas? Reflect on a time when you experienced renewed hope through your faith in Christ. Meditation On The Prayer And Gospel Matthew 11:28-30 is a passage that speaks directly to our need for hope and rest. Jesus’ invitation to come to him is extended to all who are weary and burdened, offering a refuge from the struggles of life. This invitation is not just a call to physical rest but a deeper spiritual rest that brings peace to our souls. Jesus understands the burdens we carry and offers a yoke that is easy and a burden that is light. The imagery of a yoke suggests partnership and guidance; by taking on his yoke, we align ourselves with him, allowing him to share our burdens and guide our steps. This partnership is marked by learning from Jesus, whose gentle and humble heart sets an example for us. The promise of rest for our souls is comforting. In a world where we often feel overwhelmed and stressed, Jesus assures us that he is our source of true rest and peace. His rest is not temporary or superficial but a peace that sustains us through life’s challenges. This promise gives us hope, knowing that no matter what we face, we can find solace in Jesus. Reflecting on this passage, we are reminded of the importance of surrendering our burdens to Jesus. It requires trust and faith to let go of our anxieties and allow him to take control. This surrender is an act of faith, acknowledging that Jesus is capable and willing to carry our burdens. As we learn to trust him more, we experience the peace and rest he promises. The hope we find in Jesus is transformative. It renews our spirits and gives us the strength to persevere. This hope is not dependent on our circumstances but on the nature of Jesus and his promises. It is a hope that empowers us to face each day with confidence, knowing that we are not alone. As we embrace this hope, we are called to share it with others. The hope we receive from Jesus is not meant to be kept to ourselves but to be a light for others who are struggling. Through words of encouragement, acts of kindness, and simply being present, we can extend Jesus’ invitation of hope and rest to those around us. By living out this hope, we reflect Christ’s love and bring his light into the world. In practical terms, fostering hope involves daily practices that keep us connected to Jesus. Spending time in prayer, reading Scripture, and being part of a faith community help us to stay grounded in our faith and renew our hope. These practices remind us of Jesus’ promises and keep our focus on him rather than on our circumstances. Prayer Lord Jesus, You are the anchor of my hope. In moments of doubt and despair, remind me of your promises. Fill my heart with your joy and peace, and let your hope overflow in my life. Help me to trust in your plans and to find strength in your presence. May your hope shine in me, guiding me through every trial and illuminating the path ahead. Use me as a beacon of your hope, bringing comfort and encouragement to those in need. Thank you for the gift of your eternal hope. Amen. Jeremiah 29:11 ‘For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.’ Blessing May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him. May you overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit, and may His hope guide and sustain you in all things. Amen.
Saint Maximus the Confessor interprets Christ’s saying about the lamp set upon a lamp stand (Matthew 5:15; Luke 8:16) as a theological statement about the Incarnation and the Church. The ‘lamp’ is Christ himself — the eternal Word of the Father, who has taken human nature and become visible within creation. The imagery unites revelation and embodiment: divine wisdom, formerly hidden, is now manifest through the humanity of Jesus [ … ]
Scripture: John 14:27 ‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.’ In this verse, Jesus offers his peace to his disciples, a peace that is different from what the world provides. This divine peace is deep, abiding, and capable of calming troubled hearts and dispelling fear. It is a peace that surpasses all understanding and is rooted in the presence and promises of Christ. Prayer Dear Jesus, I come before you, seeking your peace in my life. The world around me is filled with chaos and uncertainty, but I know that your peace can calm the storm within my heart. Help me to trust in you more deeply, to rest in your promises, and to feel your presence in every moment. Fill me with your peace that surpasses all understanding, and help me to be a vessel of your peace to those around me. Amen. Personal Reflection What areas of your life are causing you anxiety or fear? How can you invite Jesus’ peace into these areas? Reflect on a time when you experienced Christ’s peace amidst turmoil. Meditation On Prayer And Gospel John 14:27 reveals a profound truth about the nature of Jesus’ peace. Unlike the fleeting and often superficial peace offered by the world, Jesus’ peace is enduring and deeply transformative. This peace is not dependent on external circumstances but is anchored in the character and promises of Christ. As we navigate through life’s challenges, it’s crucial to understand and embrace this divine peace. Jesus’ peace is rooted in his presence. When he says, ‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you,’ Jesus is assuring us of his continual presence. This peace is a gift that flows from his abiding presence in our lives. It is a reminder that we are never alone, no matter what we face. his presence brings comfort and security, allowing us to rest even in the midst of life’s storms. Furthermore, Jesus contrasts his peace with the peace that the world gives. The world’s peace is often conditional and temporary, based on circumstances that can change in an instant. In contrast, Jesus’ peace is steadfast and eternal. It is a peace that reassures us in our deepest fears and anxieties, reminding us that he is in control. This peace transcends our understanding, as it is grounded in the eternal and unchanging nature of God. To experience Jesus’ peace, we must cultivate a relationship with him. This involves spending time in prayer, meditating on his word, and seeking his presence in our daily lives. It also means surrendering our worries and fears to Jesus, trusting that Jesus will provide and protect. As we draw closer to Jesus, his peace fills our hearts and minds, transforming our outlook and calming our spirits. One practical way to embrace Jesus’ peace is through prayer and meditation. By setting aside time each day to be still before the Lord, we create space for his peace to fill us. Reflecting on scriptures like John 14:27 can remind us of his promises and help us focus on his presence. Additionally, practicing gratitude can shift our focus from our worries to the many blessings in our lives, further opening our hearts to his peace. Another aspect of embracing Jesus’ peace is learning to let go of control. Often, our anxiety stems from a desire to control our circumstances. Jesus invites us to trust in his sovereign plan, even when we do not understand it. By surrendering our need for control and placing our trust in Him, we open ourselves to the peace that comes from knowing that He holds all things in his hands. Living in Jesus’ peace also means becoming peacemakers in our relationships and communities. As we experience his peace, we are called to extend that peace to others. This involves forgiving those who have wronged us, seeking reconciliation, and promoting harmony wherever we go. By being agents of his peace, we reflect his love and grace to a world in desperate need of his presence. Prayer Lord Jesus, Your peace is a precious gift that the world cannot give. In times of turmoil and distress, remind me to turn to you. Let your peace guard my heart and mind, dispelling all fear and anxiety. Teach me to trust in your unfailing love and to rest in your promises. Help me to be a peacemaker, sharing your peace with those around me. May your peace reign in my heart, my home, and my relationships. Thank you for your constant presence and the gift of your peace. Amen. Scripture: Matthew 5:9 ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.’ Blessing May the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ fill your heart and mind, guiding you through every challenge and bringing you comfort and joy. May you rest in his unending peace and share it generously with those around you. Amen.
