It is 27th August 2020.
Life is a spectrum with the optics of innumerable possibilities.
We celebrate the memorial of St Monica. A model for married women and mothers especially those who are abused. She believed in the power of prayer and arms of almsgiving that can change lives. She used to tell other women, “If you can master your tongue, not only do you run less risk of being beaten, but perhaps you may even, one day, make your husband better.” Her prayer filled patience and tears converted her son Augustine to become a saint. She is revered as the patron Saint of patience, wives, mothers, and victims of abuse.
The readings are from 1 Corinthians 1:1-9; and the Gospel from Matthew 24:42-51.
We never know how and when the Lord shows up in our life to enquire all that is troubling and bubbling in our lives.
St. Paul admires the community of Corinth for all their gifts received from God. In every appreciation received, there is a room for growth. Liking does not blindfold the side of what is lacking.
The responsorial Psalm intones, “I will praise your name for ever, o Lord.” (Ps.145:1).
We begin reading the eschatological discourse in the Gospel. There are seven parables on the coming of our Lord. We have two small ones today. Viewing things in our life and around with the spectacles of stewardship with diligence and readiness in handling the responsibilities. Everything that is entrusted to us will be scrutinized and asked a detailed account of the way we have managed.
Whether in our family, or in the social life or in our business, we cannot abuse the goodness and generosity of God.
Wisdom and faith are the keys to unlock and tap the resources in the humanity.
To be a responsible servant, we need to put on the coat of mercy without measure, love without limits, hope without horizons, vision without venom, perspectives without prejudice.
To be alert does not mean to be hyperactive in piety and releasing the grip on personal relationship with one another.
In these days, we are evolving from security consciousness to health consciousness that exclude the other person.
Whether we are prepared or like it, God is going to break into our existence when we are least prepared.
“Therefore, you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour.” (Mt.24:44). Let us learn to live in the presence and awareness of God every moment of our lives.
When God becomes a stranger to us, complacency, and insensitivity in taking others for granted pops up. May we grow in God’s love that cares and includes the other. Have a lovely day. God bless you.