The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, November 14, 2004
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Malachi 3:19-20
Psalm 98:5-9
2 Thessalonians 3:7-12
Luke 21:5-19

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

When we read Holy Scripture we're often drawn to a particular phrase or words. Perhaps it's because they resonate with our present frame of mind and the experiences we're currently undergoing. By recognizing this fact we come to see how pertinent the Word of God is in all times and generations. Today for example we hear talk of the End Times and are encouraged not to be upset, fearful or misled. Instead Jesus tells His followers to expect problems and indeed, persecution.

In and of themselves, those aren't comforting words even when we have come to believe, that if we remain faithful, in the end all things will work toward God's glory and our salvation. The caveat is: remaining faithful.

How do we do that? If we look at it long-term, it might seem that there are too many opportunities for going astray, for choosing our own will over that of God. Like all humongous and worthwhile undertakings, we work our way to heaven one step at a time, or more correctly, one moment at a time.

So, instead of being overwhelmed by what might lie ahead, let's just take things moment by moment. For this moment I'll do what is assigned to me with love. In the next, I'll refrain from saying something mean or troublesome to someone and instead be silent (or even better in my silence, say a prayer). And so it goes throughout the day - every day.

Tedious though it may seem at first, it really is the only way that our lives are lived: moment by moment.

In the closing words of today's Gospel, Jesus tells us that by patient endurance we'll save our eternal lives. May we remember that it takes both patience and endurance, and seek the source where they can be found: the heart of the Trinity, and the Church which safeguards Their treasures.

Be faithful until death, says the Lord,
and I will give you the crown of life. (Rev. 2:10)

- Donna Raye Nelson, ocds
(drn3rd at hotmail dot com)

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posted by joachim at 6:09 AM