Msgr. Pope on the God Mercifully Concealing a Number of Things from Us

"In the Office of Readings this week, we examine some of the more terrifying passages from the Book of Revelation, related to the seven trumpets, seals, and bowls of wrath. There is also a reference to the underreported 'seven thunders,' reminding us that there are some things that are not for us to know.

Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion. When he shouted, the voices of the seven thunders spoke. And when the seven thunders spoke, I was about to write; but I heard a voice from heaven say, "Seal up what the seven thunders have said and do not write it down" (Rev 10:1-4).

". . . In all of these texts we are reminded that there are some things- even many things (seven is a number indicating fullness) - that are not for us to know. This is a warning against sinful curiosity and a solemn reminder that not all of God's purposes or plans are revealed to us."

In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on some of the reasons for God's silence about certain matters. These reasons include a rebuke of our misuse of knowledge and a sparing us from the effects of knowing things that we cannot handle.

To access Msgr. Pope's complete post, please visit:

Community in Mission: A Call to Humility in the Mystery of the Seven Thunders (28 APR 20)