Celebration: Ferial
Table of the Word
First Reading: Wisdom 13:1-9
Gospel: Luke 17:26-37
Theme: Living in Vigilance.
Reflection
Beloved in Christ Jesus, as the Church gradually closed the Liturgical Year, as it is often the tradition; she often called our attention to the Parousia - the second coming of our Lord. In today's reflection, we are drawn to the tension between comfort and conversion, between passive existence and active vigilance. The first reading from the Book of Wisdom challenges us: through the beauties of creation people might admire the works, but fail to acknowledge the Creator (cf. Wisdom 13:1-9).
The psalm echoes creation’s voice: the stars, the heavens, speak of God, yet many hearts remain unmoved (cf. Psalms 19:2-3, 4-5 ab)
While in the Gospel pericope, Jesus Christ sets a stark image: life will go on as usual, eating, drinking, building etc., until the day the Son of Man appears (cf. Luke 17:26-37).
Then those who cling to what is safe may lose it, but those who surrender it for the reign of God will find true life.
To buttress this standpoint, the Mother Church reminds us that our Christian journey is not about accumulating security or nostalgia; it is about being ready. And St. Augustine one of the influential Church Fathers writes that Christ comes “when we are still unprepared”, so the call is continual readiness. Conversion is not a one-time act but a way of life.
However, as we continue in our deep search for meaning of life, stdiving to to serve God in spirit and truth. Let us briefly pause awhile to to ask ourselves:
- In what ways am I admiring creation, gifts, comforts, but neglecting God Himself? This tentamount to the act of doing God's work and forgeting yhe God of the work.
- Secondly, am I so focused on preserving my status, reputation or comfort that I delay letting God transform me?
- Finally, today, how might I lose something meaningful for the sake of the Kingdom, perhaps pride, routine, fear so that I may gain what endures?
Let us be vigilant so as not to be taken by surprise.
+ Peace be with you.
© ARCHIVE 14112025
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