Readings: 1 Thessalonians 3:7-13, Ps. 90:3-4,12-14,17, Matthew 24:42-51
“Therefore, you also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” (Matthew 24:44)
Jesus tells us today: “Watch, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.” To be watchful is to be alert in the spirit. It is a constant reminder that the end must surely come. The book of Proverbs defines spiritual watchfulness: “Guard your heart with all vigilance, for out of it proceed the wellsprings of life.” (Proverbs 4:23)
St. Peter adds: “Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary, the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in your faith.” (1st Peter 5:8-9). In school, we are informed ahead of time about the examination/test date, but in spiritual life, the devil doesn’t notify us ahead of time about tests, trials, and temptations. We have to be constantly prepared.
The best way to stay vigilant is to keep busy. Just as a good security officer never sleeps while on duty, being watchful requires keeping our hearts engaged. If we are not busy, we will soon find ourselves sleeping, allowing the enemy to sow bad seeds in us (Cf. Matthew 13:25ff). The consequence of being unprepared for the end in Jesus’ words is this: “The Master will… punish him, and put him with the hypocrites; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.”
Jesus says: “Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing.” The truth is that regardless of our positions in life, we are all servants; we all have masters – indeed, one supreme master to whom we must give an account. Whether we are leaders in church or benchwarmers, we must prepare to give an account. Jesus wants us to be ready for the last day, and at the same time, He wants to find us at our duty posts when He comes.
Remember the end; even the air you breathe is borrowed, and you will have to relinquish it someday. Do not be attached to anything on earth, not even the hurts of others. Forgive quickly, and take life easy. What troubles you now will not matter if you die, so just let it go. In summary, try to live every day as if it were your last day on earth. This will help you be at your best.
In today’s first reading, St. Paul prays for the Thessalonians that God should “make them increase and abound in love to one another and to all men, and establish their hearts unblameable in holiness.” To this prayer, we say, “Amen.” As we make efforts to prepare for the last day, we recognise that we cannot do it by our human strength alone. We need power from above to love one another and practice unblameable holiness. The truth is that we often barely pray for the grace to live a virtuous life, as we take it for granted. Too often, we only remember to pray when we are in trouble or in need of some material blessing. Learn to ask for holiness.
St. Augustine of Hippo initially led a life of sin but underwent a profound transformation to become a prominent Christian leader. Born in Africa to St. Monica, Augustine’s early years were marked by immoral behaviour and the pursuit of false beliefs, despite his Christian upbringing and sharp intellect. His path to faith was influenced by his mother’s steadfast prayers and the inspiring sermons of St. Ambrose.
For a period, Augustine was hesitant to fully embrace Christianity, questioning whether he could live a life of purity. His resolve was strengthened when he saw two men quickly convert after reading about St. Antony. In a moment of deep despair, Augustine sought comfort in a garden and heard a child’s voice singing “Take up and read,” prompting him to open the Bible to St. Paul’s letters. The scripture he read addressed his personal struggles and encouraged him to turn away from sin and follow Christ.
This pivotal experience led to Augustine’s baptism and his ordination as a priest and bishop. He became a celebrated Catholic writer and founded a religious order. Augustine’s dedication to faith and charity was embodied in the motto above his door: “Here we do not speak evil of anyone.” He actively fought against heresies, embraced a life of poverty, assisted the needy, and committed himself to regular preaching and prayer.
Reflecting on his earlier life, Augustine is remembered for saying, “Too late have I loved You!” However, his life of holiness served to atone for his past mistakes. The Catholic Church celebrates St. Augustine’s feast day on 28 August, honouring his lasting impact on Christianity.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, may death not meet us unprepared. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint Augustine, Bishop, Doctor. Liturgical Colour: White. Bible Study: 1 Thessalonians 3:7-13, Ps. 90:3-4,12-14,17, Matthew 24:42-51)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu