The Catholic Calendar for Sunday, November 6, 2005
The Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Wisdom 6:12-16
Psalm 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 or 4:13-14
Matthew 25:1-13

A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

“Stay awake….” (Matthew 25:1-13)

The final Words Jesus speaks following the parable of the virgins are sober and true Words. “Stay awake.” None of us knows when the time for us to be ready to meet Him will come. Let us be wise, faithful and ready for His coming to take us; indeed, well-prepared for the eternal wedding feast.

Jesus reminds us to be ready to welcome Him at all times. One who is not prepared by keeping the necessary supply of grace through the sacraments and through service, will not have “time” when called to the eternal wedding feast.

This oil for the lamp that keeps one vigilantly ready for eternal life is regular confession, prayer, spiritual direction, holy Mass and communion, and doing daily the will of God. The foolish soul does not prepare for eternal life by seeking and protecting these graces, rather takes the little received and hopes it will be enough. It is no surprise this one is not prepared to meet and join God eternally.

O Lord, may we “stay awake,” one in You, through the gifts You mercifully bestow for all. Let us appreciate and use them now and forever. Amen

- Mary Williams
(www.impactbydesign.biz)