The Gospel today addresses the age-old concern about the end times…which begs a question: if the Lord called you right now, would you be ready? Are there things in life that need to be fixed, or are there perhaps opportunities that you can help flourish?
Jesus uses a number of illustrations to underscore a practical point: we live each moment to the fullest as we follow the Lord. Only with our eyes fixed on Jesus can we face the uncertainties of life with calm conviction.
Jesus teaches that the Kingdom of God is among us. Our task is not to go chasing around looking for the Lord, but rather to live as his disciples as we apply our faith to every aspect of our lives.
The healing of the ten lepers reveals the power of God’s grace. The gratitude of the Samaritan shows a response that can teach us all a great deal about how we drawn near to the Lord with a grateful heart.
To say “I serve the Lord” has tremendous implications for our understanding and action. Recognizing Jesus as our Lord, we configure every aspect of our lives to him as our daily actions and interactions are infused with his grace.
Two widows offer examples of giving generously in the Scriptures today. Three words – gratitude, sacrifice and expectation – can offer insight into how we can be generous as we follow the example of Jesus.
The Lord offers a blunt teaching about money, reminding us that God is our first and greatest priority…whereas money is a tool that is meant to be put to good and practical use.
Today the universal Church celebrates the dedication of the Lateran Basilica – the cathedral of the city of Rome – reminding us that every church around the world offers us a direct encounter of the living God when we draw near to the altar to pray.
Recognizing our sins and asking for forgiveness challenges us to honestly acknowledge our faults and humbly ask for help. While this is not easy, this process puts us in right relationship with the Lord and one another…allowing us to grow in maturity, wisdom and love.