Today's Readings
Friday of the thirty second week in ordinary time
2 John 4-9
Ps 119:1,2,10,11,17,18
Luke 17:26-37
We have been reflecting in these past days on the invisible, mysterious character of supernatural things, namely of the kingdom of God. This Gospel develops this theme further by describing the unpredictable way supernatural things occur. Jesus made reference to the sudden nature of the flood in Noah's days, which came upon the world as an overpowering wave—unpredictable, overwhelming, definite. Jesus also referred to the end-times, which will occur in an equally unexpected but definite fashion. And we can acknowledge the mystery and inevitability of our own death one day, which we cannot foresee. Most supernatural things have that unpredictable quality, do they not?
"As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be in the days of the Son of Man...the flood came and destroyed them all." The most common reaction when hearing that “it” could happen at any time is anguish. We tend to get nervous, but let's take another look at the Gospel. The flood Jesus announces is the “day of the Son of Man.” So it is not a question of when “it” will come, but when “he” will come. The overpowering flood at the end of time will be the coming of Christ in an unpredictable, overwhelming, and definite way. People will no longer be able to avoid Christ. The flood of his coming will destroy the many shields with which mankind tries to keep God out of their lives. Living in a state of grace is the best way to peacefully prepare for his coming.
Jesus calls himself the Son of Man in order to express how closely bonded he is to us. We do not have to be afraid! He refers to our last days as his days. We do not have to be afraid! He is our friend, our love, our happiness. So, we do not have to be afraid! Let’s renew our resolve to give him first place in our lives today. If we do, his day at the end of times will be a day of familiar friendship, of strong love, and of happiness, which has its root in our life now. It will be a day to look forward to—a day we prepare for by praying, “Thy Kingdom Come!”
Jesus, I want to be prepared for your coming, either at the end of time or at my death. Please reassure me through the sacraments that your grace is sufficient. Help me to live today so that everything I do brings glory to you. May “Thy Kingdom Come” in my life today.
Today by God's grace, try to live in such a way that his coming will not be a cause for anguish but for joy. The Lord be with you
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