THE POWER OF READINESS

READINGS: NINETEENTH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME

In the gospel of this 19th Sunday in ordinary times, Christ says, “Be like those waiting for their master to return.” We live in a world distracted by urgency and this verse calls us to be people of eternal anticipation; souls lit with the fire of hope, hearts directed to His purpose, eyes committed to noticing his presence in everyday activities, ears attuned to his knock. Some time ago, I ordered a package and when I got the message, “Out for delivery”, I stayed home, frequently checked my phone, and listened closely for the doorbell. Could this be the kind of attentiveness, Christ is asking of us—not toward a parcel, but toward our life purpose? 

This is not just about religion, it is about presence and engagement; it is about living like something greater is coming, with a determination not to miss it. It is a call not to be bored or asleep at the wheel but to stay awake, aware, and positively engaged. 

The return of Christ is not meant to scare us, rather it is a reminder that our life has meaning now and our purpose in life matters, and it does. So, every text, every post, every decision, every behavior matters and does add up. 

The way we wait for our the Masters return is shown in how we live, how we care, how we love, how we serve, how we forgive, and how we better ourselves at every given opportunity—the respect for self and others, how we respect and honor our parents; how we care for the less privileged and marginalized; how we reach out to touch the broken hearted, the orphan, the widow, and the stands we take for justice and fairness; how we show gratitude to God for blessings received and thankfulness for the blessings of others; how much time we spend with God and we do for the spreading of the gospel. St. Augustine once said that God has promised forgiveness to our repentance but has not promised tomorrow to our procrastination. Waiting faithfully means living each day with purpose, knowing that our time is not ours, but a “Trust” given to us. It is living like Christ could return today, because one day, He will. 

To all our Parishioners

I want to express my deepest gratitude to our parishioners for celebrating my birthday this past Sunday with such flare and fanfare. It was an amazing evening and I am very grateful. In a very special way, I thank all those who took it upon themselves to organize and execute it; to all those who cooked and served; to those who decorated and beautified the hall; to the various groups that made their presence known, and to all who attended to make it a success. May the good Lord reward you for your encouragement. All I can say is, THANK YOU!