Word to the Wise
Thursday, August 30, 2012 - Thursday in the 21th Week in Ordinary Time
[1 Cor 1:1-9 and Matt 24:42-51]So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come." [Matt]
The matter of Jesus' return at the end of time was (and remains) of considerable importance to the early disciples. In their case, this event was widely believed to be soon. They were reflecting on Jesus' words as they remembered them and as those words are recounted here in Matthew. However, Jesus was consistent in saying that the hour and time are not predictable. What was (and is still) important is to be prepared. In other words, stay in shape!
The recent event of the London Olympics displayed athletes who train for years and years to be able to compete. They have to stay in shape and be alert to the challenges to their dreams and hopes. As St. Paul points out, they do this to win "an earthly crown" [1 Cor 9:25] but we are called to an even greater reward, and the challenge is no less great. Staying in good shape morally and spiritually requires daily effort. In ordinary physical life, we are often exhorted to get exercise and eat healthily. Those who don't will pay a price in the deterioration of their health.
Jesus speaks to us as well of his return. Will we be faithful and prudent servants and keep our and his household in good shape and ready for him? AMEN
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