Thursday, 31st August 2023. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:7-13, Ps. 90:3-4,12-14,17, Matthew 24:42-51
“Therefore you also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” (Matthew 24:44)
Jesus tells us today: “Watch, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.” To be watchful is to be alert in the spirit. It is reminding oneself constantly that the end must surely come. The book of Proverbs defines spiritual watchfulness: “Guard your heart with all vigilance, for out of it proceeds the wellsprings of life.” (Proverbs 4:23)
St. Peter adds: “Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary, the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in your faith.” (1st Peter 5:8-9). In school, we are informed ahead of time of the examination/test date, but in the spiritual life, the devil doesn’t inform us ahead of tests, trials and temptations. We have to be constantly prepared.
The best way to keep watch is to get busy. Just as a good security officer never sleeps while on duty, being watchful requires keeping our hearts engaged. If we are not busy, we will soon find ourselves sleeping, allowing the enemy to sow bad seeds in us (Cf. Matthew 13:25ff). Hence, Jesus says: “Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing.” Jesus wants us to be prepared for the last day, and at the same time, He wants to find us at our duty posts when He comes.
Remember the end; even the air you breathe is borrowed, and you will have to relinquish it someday. Do not be attached to anything on earth, not even the hurts of others. Forgive quickly, and take life easy. What troubles you now will not matter if you die, so just let it go. In summary, try to live every day as if it is your last day on earth. This will help you be at your best.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, may death not meet me unprepared. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Thursday of week 21 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 1 Thessalonians 3:7-13, Ps. 90:3-4,12-14,17, Matthew 24:42-51).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu
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