HEAVEN AND EARTH PASSING AWAY
The idea of heaven and earth passing away is a profound and significant theme in Catholic theology, rooted in both Scripture and Church tradition.
The Transient Nature of the Present World
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus declares, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away” (Mt 24:35). This statement, made in the context of Jesus’ eschatological discourse, underscores the temporary nature of our current reality and the eternal nature of God’s truth.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church elaborates on this concept, stating, “At the end of time, the Kingdom of God will come in its fullness. After the universal judgment, the righteous will reign forever with Christ, glorified in body and soul. The universe itself will be renewed” (CCC 1042).
The New Heaven and New Earth
The Book of Revelation provides a vivid description of what is to come: “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The former heaven and the former earth had passed away, and the sea was no more” (Rev 21:1). This imagery of renewal and transformation is not unique to the New Testament but finds its roots in the Old Testament as well.
The prophet Isaiah foretold, “See, I am creating new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered nor come to mind” (Isa 65:17). This prophecy aligns with the Catholic understanding of the world’s ultimate destiny.
The Nature of the Transformation
Catholic theology teaches that this transformation is not a complete annihilation of the current creation but rather a purification and renewal. As St. Peter writes, “But according to his promise we await new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells” (2 Pet 3:13).
The Catechism further explains, “The visible universe, then, is itself destined to be transformed, ‘so that the world itself, restored to its original state, facing no further obstacles, should be at the service of the just,’ sharing their glorification in the risen Jesus Christ” (CCC 1047).
The New Jerusalem
Central to this renewed creation is the concept of New Jerusalem. Revelation describes it as “the holy city, a new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband” (Rev 21:2). This heavenly city symbolizes the perfect communion between God and His people.
Catholic theologian Joseph Ratzinger (later Pope Benedict XVI) suggests that this imagery represents the unique fulfillment each person will find in God, stating that “God gives each and every person his fulfillment in a way peculiar to this or that individual.”
REFLECTION
As we contemplate these profound truths, we are called to reflect on their implications for our lives today:
1. Live with Eternal Perspective: Recognizing the transient nature of our current world should inspire us to focus on eternal values rather than temporary pleasures or possessions.
2. Embrace Transformation: Just as the world will be renewed, we are called to continual conversion and renewal in our own lives.
3. Hope in God’s Promises: The promise of a new heaven and new earth should fill us with hope, even in the face of current challenges and sufferings.
4. Participate in God’s Work: We are called to be co-creators with God, working towards the realization of His kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.
5. Cultivate Communion: The image of the New Jerusalem reminds us of the importance of building community and fostering unity among all people.
Conclusion
The Catholic understanding of heaven and earth passing away is not a cause for fear, but a source of hope and inspiration. It reminds us of God’s ultimate plan for creation and our role in it. As we journey through this life, may we keep our eyes fixed on the eternal city that awaits us, allowing this vision to shape our actions and attitudes in the present. May the promise of a new heaven and a new earth encourage us to live lives of faith, hope, and love, participating in the transformative work of God’s kingdom.