DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE 29TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR

Celebration: Ferial

Table of the Word

First Reading:  Romans 5:12, 15b, 17–19, 20b–21

Gospel: Luke 12:35–38

Theme: Ready and Watchful: Living Each Day in Holy Expectation.

Reflection

Today’s readings remind us that the Christian journey is a pilgrimage of grace, a life shaped by vigilance, gratitude, and readiness for the Lord’s coming.

In the first reading, taken from the Pauline's epistle to the Roman Church (Romans 5:12, 15b, 17–19, 20b–21)

St. Paul contrasts Adam’s disobedience with Christ’s obedience: “Through one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so through one man’s obedience many will be made righteous.” (Rom. 5:19)

However, sin entered the world through Adam, but grace triumphed through Christ. Where sin abounded, grace overflowed all the more. The obedience of Christ undoes the rebellion of humanity; His Cross becomes the tree of life where the old curse is broken. The Gospel complements this theme with Jesus’ call to vigilance: “Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning, and be like men waiting for their master to return from the wedding feast” (Luke 12:35–36).

The image of the lamp and the girded waist symbolizes a heart prepared, alert, and faithful in service. The Lord’s coming, whether at dawn or midnight will reveal the soul’s true disposition. Blessed, Jesus says, are those servants whom the Master finds awake, for “He will gird Himself, have them recline at table, and wait on them.” (v. 37)

This is one of the most astonishing promises in the Gospel: the Master serves the servant. It captures the very heart of the Christian mystery divine humility meeting human faithfulness.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (no. 2730) has this to say:  “Vigilance of heart is the protection against forgetfulness and against the enemy who does not sleep.”

The Church, in her wisdom, calls this spiritual readiness “the virtue of hope in action.” It is the watchfulness born of love, not fear. The believer who watches for the Lord’s coming does so with the joy of one awaiting a beloved guest.

Hence, Christian vigilance is not mere waiting; it is active faithfulness, a daily readiness shaped by love, humility, and service.

Beloved in Christ, be spiritually awake. Guard your heart through prayer, reflection, and attentiveness to God’s Word. Let your light shine. Keep the flame of faith alive by acts of charity, forgiveness, and truth.

Finally, await the Lord with joy. Vigilance is not anxiety but expectant love, and the readiness to meet Christ at any hour.

Remember, “The heart that watches in love never sleeps in darkness.”

+ Peace be with you.

© ARCHIVE 21102025