REFLECTIONS TODAY
Jesus ends his apocalyptic discourse with the sign of hope in the budding of the fig tree (Lk 21:29-31). He then calls for vigilance and watchfulness. This does not mean that one continually looks up the sky waiting to be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air (1 Thes 4:16-17). Instead, one should have his feet on the ground, attending to one’s responsibilities, and face life’s challenges and tribulations, like faithful servants entrusted with his Master’s properties. Jesus’ warning against becoming drowsy from carousing and drunkenness is echoed by Paul to the Christians in Rome: “It is the hour now for you to awake from sleep. For our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed; the night is advanced, the day is at hand. Let us then throw off the works of darkness put on the armor of light; let us conduct ourselves properly as in the day” (Rom 13:11-13).
GOSPEL • LUKE 21:34-36
Jesus said to his disciples: “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.” SOURCE: “365 Days with the Lord 2021,”
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