A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke 12:54-59
Jesus said to the crowds, “When you see a cloud rising in the west you say immediately that it is going to rain–and so it does; and when you notice that the wind is blowing from the south you say that it is going to be hot–and so it is. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky; why do you not know how to interpret the present time? “Why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? If you are to go with your opponent before a magistrate, make an effort to settle the matter on the way; otherwise your opponent will turn you over to the judge, and the judge hand you over to the constable, and the constable throw you into prison. I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny.”
REFLECTION: "You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky; why do you not know how to interpret the present time?"
Jesus became man so that we would go to heaven through Him. We live in the present time and we are asked to see the signs of His presence among us. Imagine, God loved us so much that He made Himself known to us. It is up to us with our reasoning and our faith to follow all the signs needed to reach heaven.
We have the Ten Commandments. To avoid spiritual crisis and moral disaster, we are given guidelines to follow.
1. Don't argue.
2. Reach out to people and share His love.
3. Seek friendships of kindred spirits.
4. Forgive.
5. Be open to the love of God.
6. Seek the brotherhood of Christ.
7. Pray for the salvation of souls and ours.
8. Be eager to place others before you.
9. Avoid gossip.
10. Accept God's goodness and unfathomable mercy.
We are aware of warning signs regarding bad weather, hazardous conditions and detours. Jesus loved us so much that He became man to save us. The people of His time did not recognize the Son of God in Jesus. Dearest merciful Father, thank you for the gift of faith. We ask for more faith so that we can always see the signs of God that are right in front of us, waiting to be noticed.
God Bless
