Tuesday, September 1, 2009

The Day of the Lord


This week I am featuring a series of brief devotionals to go along with the daily mass readings.

“But you, brothers, are not in darkness, for that day to overtake you like a thief.”

I Thessalonians 5:4


During a recession, people suddenly become more aware of the insecurity of their worldly positions. Jobs are lost, stock values plummet, and even the surety of a roof over one’s head is no longer a given. Those who are still on dry ground become more wise in their spending, saving for a “rainy day”. Spiritually, we must make sure we are always ready for the day of the Lord’s return. We must save up His words in our hearts for when they are needed. Those who care not about living the Gospel are living in the darkness and are in danger of being unprepared for His coming. If we keep to our faith and do our best to follow His word, we are living in the light and need not fear.

Prayer: Lord, help me to live your Word, that I may always be prepared.

FRANCKEN, Hieronymus, II
Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins
c. 1616
Oil on canvas, 111 x 172 cm
The Hermitage, St. Petersburg

1 comment:

Daily Grace said...

Your choice of "Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins" is so well suited for this reflection.

An excellent choice!

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing” (1 Thessalonians 5: 11).