The Time Will Come

In today's Gospel we hear Jesus speaking about the destruction of the temple. He is prompted by questions about when and how this will all take place and what signs they shall be looking for; "All that you see here- the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down." (Lk 21:6). He then goes on to say how there will be wars and famines and false prophets testifying to the end of times, but they will all come to pass before the time has actually come. Here we can see that Jesus is emphasizing the ambiguity of the end of times rather than a specific date. Often we find ourselves so burdened with details that we are so overwhelmed we know not what to do. But Jesus is speaking here about how we are to live our lives while there is an unforeseen end; an end without a specific time and place. We can even find some reasoning for this ambiguity: if we knew when the world would come to an end, how quickly would we be to end our sinful ways and repent? Is it not better to treat everyday with such care and gentleness and interact with everyone we meet with a charitable love as if it was the last day rather than being selfish and sinful up until the last moment? True love takes work, true love takes patience and time, and these are the things that Jesus is trying to communicate to us through the Gospels. 

Reflection: Am I living fully or am I living to fulfill myself?

Lord God, thank you for today and everyday. Thank you for your grace and mercy. Lord, I ask that you send forth your Spirit upon me, that my heart may be open to your will for me. Assist me Lord in all that I do today, that I may not take anything or anyone for granted, and that I might recognize all of your blessings in my life. I pray, through our Lord, Jesus Christ, your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever, Amen. 

Resource:  usccb.org/bible/readings/112718.cfm