may the Lord give you grace, peace and health in the Holy Spirit.
It is 27th November 2021.
We reflect on Daniel 7: 15-27 and Luke 21: 34-36.
As we gratefully conclude the liturgical year with this Eucharistic banquet, we are filled with hope and gently reminded that we need to “watch at all times, praying.” (Lk.21:36).
We are not alone. The Mother Church along with the army of angels and saints are with us. Watching keenly on our spontaneous leaning towards the evil, dealing with the corruptions, and abuse of all kinds need to be enveloped in prayer. When our eyes are fixed and our life is anchored on Jesus, there is no time to give in to the domination of emotions that lead us astray.
Everything in front of us today will disappear in a moment, no matter how strong is the relationship we enjoy, and how powerful is the wealth we boast about, how powerful are the kingdoms in which we reside, and the powers we have shielded but God’s affectionate embrace and the sovereignty will never vanish. No power on earth will outlast the power and rule of God.
We all have work to do in dealing with our tendency towards unstoppable pleasures of life. This endeavour cannot distract our gaze on the Son of Man, Jesus. We are entering an intense period of blessing that is the Advent focusing our life on Jesus. Jesus urges us not to be caught unexpectedly in claws of evil but to pay attention, pray at all times and in doing good.
His Holiness Pope Francis encourages us: “If, up till now you have kept Jesus at a distance, step forward. If following him seems difficult, do not be afraid, trust him, be confident that he is close to you, he is with you and he will give you the peace you are looking for and the strength to live as he would have you do.”
What we need to do is remarkably simple: Be always alert praying and standing before the Son of Man. Our freedom of speech does not give us the power to gossip and spread fake and unverified news. Issues related to gender, family, and marriage, we need to be alert about our compromises than convictions coupled with integrity and honesty. It is time to deal with our personal hypocrisy, double standard or multi-standard living, twisting tongues, chameleon character, and constant inconsistency in the way we conduct ourselves. It is not worth giving up when we feel helpless, taken for a ride, ignored and indifferent.
Are we living a superficial life that leaves God intentionally? It is by our consistent collaboration with the plan of God, we make the dreams of Christ get rooted, and those little battles be won silently for Christ. St. Paul strengthens us, “Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.” (Eph 6:13-18). May our Beloved Mother Mary intercede for us to improve our quality of praying. God bless you.