No doubt this is where the saying about “reading the handwriting on the wall” comes from. Sometimes God needs to spell it out in very clear words - what is taking place that involves us and him!
In the case of King Belshazzar it was a warning of disaster - because he would not realize his mistakes and change his ways. His kingdom would be ended - and he himself would be judged guilty of very many crimes - and his lands would be divided among neighboring territories.
When we see “handwriting on the wall” - what is our response? Do we take it seriously? Do we think it must be our imagination? Do we take it for what it is worth: a true sign from God about the condition of our lives and our relationship with him? Can we afford not to take it seriously?
The gospel passage today tells us that it is not easy to put our convictions into practice: to take the messages from God that we get in many and varied ways throughout the day - including the readings and homilies at the masses we attend - our own private scripture and spiritual reading during the day - our general thoughts and prayers that are addressed to God awaiting his response and reply - and then put them on the line when it is called for!
The true follower of Jesus will find himself standing in contradiction to a great many persons and ideologies - both outside of, and even inside of the Church - but Jesus tells that follower to be faithful and courageous. By perseverance we shall secure our lives in the coming Kingdom - where it counts the most!
Come what may, we must remain faithful until death, and we will be given the crown of life!
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