From the Pastor – 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
From the Pastor – 33 rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Today’s readings are in stark contrast to the joy of the holiday season that is fast approaching, warning us instead of dark times ahead and our inevitable judgment day.
The first reading from the prophet Daniel describes a time “unsurpassed in distress since nations began” and warns that “many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake; some shall live forever, and others shall be an everlasting horror and disgrace.” The second reading, from Hebrews, speaks of Christ who “waits until his enemies are made his footstool.”
However, when we firmly establish for ourselves as individuals — as a family and as a parish that we will give to God the first and best portion of our Time, Talent, and Treasure — the warnings we read in the Scriptures today should be no cause for alarm. In fact, we can view these words as encouragement — “Keep Calm and Steward On,” no matter what comes our way.
One of the blessings of a stewardship way of life is that in challenging times, whether in our homes or workplaces or even our beloved Church itself, we can take great comfort in knowing we have a concrete plan to keep our priorities in right order. And, when we put God first in all aspects of our lives, we will experience the peace that He gives that surpasses all understanding.
Pastoral Pondering
I can’t believe that Thanksgiving is upon us already, but it certainly is. Even though the Scriptures and the Liturgy focus on the last things and the end of time, the spirit of Thanksgiving remains present in the very structure of the Liturgy. Many times we find ourselves turning to God when we need or want something. This type of petitioning prayer is a good thing. Nonetheless, it should not be the first thing that we do when we pray. Our first response to the God who loves us and called us into being is to be thankful, and to praise Him for everything; as someone once said, “to thank God for God!”
When we begin our prayer by recognizing the many ways in which God blesses and sustains us, it changes our perspective. We are led to focus outwardly rather than inwardly and to see the subtle ways in which God works in our daily lives. One of the basic ways that God does this work is through those people whom we encounter each day. If we can try to recognize God in others, it opens up new horizons and provides us new perspectives.
Pastors and priests often encounter people in some of their most vulnerable times; yet, it affords us the opportunity to recognize Christ in their suffering and brokenness. At the same time, we have the opportunity to encounter Christ in those we work with daily; with those who do the daily work of parish ministry. I am surrounded by outstanding people who dedicate themselves tireless to the work of the Kingdom. I thank God for them every day. I’ve also seen the tremendous kindness and charity that so many in the parish display as they respond to the various needs of the less fortunate during the holiday season. All of these experiences are a reminder of God’s blessings and providential care.
As we celebrate Thanksgiving this year, don’t forget to thank those in your life who help you see Christ every day and don’t forget to thank God for placing those folks in your path.
Happy Thanksgiving!!