“WATCH THEREFORE, FOR YOU KNOW NEITHER THE DAY NOR THE HOUR” (Matt 25:13)

⏰Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year A)

????Wis 6:12-16; Ps 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8 (R.v.2b); 1Thess 4:13-18; Matt 25:1-13

For the second time in two weeks, the readings appear so live to me as if they would be fulfilled immediately. I just told someone with me at the time of making this reflection that it is possible that I may not finish it before the Lord calls me. But in case I remain alive, it reminds me that I am living on a borrowed time. The owner of the time, God, may demand of it at any time. How prepared am I to surrender it? That is the focus of our liturgy today.

We are gradually coming to the end of the liturgical year. The Church uses this opportunity also remind us of the end of our earthly life and the beginning of another life. The way we live now determines the way we shall die and where we shall spend our eternity. It is not going to be a magic; it may not be possible for one to live badly and spend eternity in God’s kingdom. Yes, it is true that some people get redeemed late in life before they died. The thief who was hanging on the cross with Jesus and got saved could be considered the patron of those. Yet, it is not certain that everyone would have such an amazing opportunity. That is why we are called today to make haste while the sun is shining.

Wisdom lies in knowing that we are not sure of the next minute. As it was possible, as I mentioned above, that I may not have the time to conclude this reflection before God calls me, it is also possible that you may be called home at this moment you are reading this message. If that happens, are you going to be among the wise virgins who were ready for the bridegroom or among the foolish ones who thought they have all the time to go and make late preparations?

St. Paul reminds us that all of us who who die in Christ will rise with him. Those who are also alive in him at his coming, will be taken with him at his coming. Are you alive in him? This is the only hour of grace that is sure. Make use of it while you still can. Confess your sins today and get back to the sacrament. The Lord is waiting for you. He loves you and he is inviting you to share in the fullness of that love. Are you not going to accept the invitation?

May the Lord himself, who is wisdom par excellence, fill us with wisdom so that we may know the shortness of our lives and live well so as to meet him well when he calls us from this life. Amen.

Have a grace-filled Sunday. Peace be with you.