Posted by The WORD in other words (2021) by Fr Filmar Fiel SVD – DYRF, Cebu City
Friday 32nd Week in Ordinary Time
In November, we reflect on the four last things: death, judgment, heaven, hell. Our celebrations prove these: All Saints’ Day, All Souls’ Day, the week-long reflections on the end-time, the Solemnity of Christ the King.
In yesterday’s gospel (Luke 17:20-25), Jesus was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come. He replied that there would be many claims about it but reminded them not to go running off after them.
In today’s gospel (Luke 17:26-37), Jesus shifts his attention to his disciples and relates two incidents: the great flood in Noah’s time (Gen. 6-7) and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen. 19). In both cases, people were doing their usual routines, unaware that God’s judgment was coming until it was too late.
As believers, we place much emphasis on our Lord’s coming. However, the over-excitement about seeing the Lord may lead us to chase after every potential messiah that claim to be the anointed son of God, the last messenger, the souls who went to heaven and hell, the Sto. Niño’s medium, etc. Beware of them!
Instead of being distracted by worldly concerns, as Jesus repeatedly reminded his disciples, he asks us to be faithful and diligent and endeavor to bring people closer to Christ and His Church.
