DAILY READINGS REFLECTION (SATURDAY, 2nd DECEMBER, 2017)

SATURDAY OF THE THIRTY FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME (Year I)
First Reading: Dan 7:15-27
Psalm: Dan 3. R. v. 60b
Gospel: Lk 21:34-36
As Jesus concludes the eschatological speech in the gospel of today, he calls us to be continuously vigilant. He said: “Take heed to yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life . . .” These words of Jesus is a call on the faithful to guard against becoming totally absorbed in daily life. It is a reminder to us that the material things of this world are like a trap which will continuously distract our attention from being vigilant as we await Christ’s coming.

Jesus further warns: “Watch at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of man.” This is a call to a life of vigilance and prayer in order not to get absorbed in the worldly events which are finite to the detriment of the heavenly reward which is eternal.
Therefore as we go about our daily activities, it should not distract us that we lose sight of being vigilant of the eternal realities. Life can be so pleasurable to leave us so weak in doing the most needful. In our short moment of living, we should not lose our alertness or overwhelmed by the pleasures of life. Constant introspection can reawaken our consciousness to get ourselves ready for Christ’s coming. Let us watch and pray for we do not know the hour. What shall we be found doing when that hour comes?
PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Lord Jesus, help us to be vigilant and watchful in prayer as we await your coming. Amen.
FR VALENTINE EGBUONU, MSP

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