Gospel: Luke 12:35-38
Jesus said to his disciples:
“Gird your loins and light your lamps
and be like servants who await their master’s return from a wedding,
ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks.
Blessed are those servants
whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival.
Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself,
have them recline at table, and proceed to wait on them.
And should he come in the second or third watch
and find them prepared in this way,
blessed are those servants.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
The Mass intention is for the People of the Parish.
Reflection:
The rich man, in yesterday’s Gospel, thought that he could enjoy his wealth for good. Unknown to him, God would take his life that very night. The pandemic has taken the lives of many. Communities and families alike mourn for the sudden death of loved ones. What makes it more painful is that the bereaved have been unable to gather and hold on to each other during these sorrowful times. There are moments when we become fearful as to when God would call us back to our true home.
Jesus is telling us today not to be afraid, but “Gird your loins and light your lamps”. In other words, be ready like those servants waiting for their master’s return. Waiting can be challenging though. We can doze off. We can get distracted. We can give up. The rich man was distracted by his many material possessions that he was unable to stay awake for the master’s coming. St Paul of the Cross, whose memorial we celebrate today, once said “From this valley of tears, turn your gaze continually to God, ever awaiting the moment when you will be united to Him in heaven. Often contemplate heaven, and fervently exclaim: ‘What a beautiful abode there is above! It is destined for us!’
- Do you fear death? Why or why not?
- How do you keep your hope up in this time of pandemic?
- How do you stay vigilant for the Lord’s coming?
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your Word today. Through the prayers and example of St Paul of the Cross, help us to be prepared for the many moments when You come into our lives. Teach us to persevere. Amen.
Sincerely,
Pietro
