First Reading: Eph 4:1-6; Psalm: 24. R. v. 6; Gospel: Lk 12 54-59

DISCERNING THE SIGNS OF TIME

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

“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?” (Lk 12:56)

Can we see that it hurts Jesus when we fail to discern the signs of time? What are the signs of our present time? When we take a look at our society, a lot of sinful practices have been normalised. Practices such as same sex marriage, human-animal marriage, bestiality, divorce and abortion, to mention but a few. In our Churches, there are a lot of false prophets, fake miracles, false testimonies, diabolic healers, deceptive preachers and sexual scandals. In families, crimes like domestic violence, incest, rape, paedophilia and murder are prevalent. A lot of evils have become the new normal.   

We need to discern these signs because one of the tricks of the Devil is the use of lies and manipulation to make evil practices seem right. The Devil has a way of deceiving us to normalise unacceptable standards and adopting it as a way of life. There is no better way to discern what is right and just except through the scriptures. Discerning the signs of time through the lens of the scriptures affords us the insight and opportunity to reject the lies of the Devil which is capable of destroying us.

Let us stop following blindly the conventional lifestyles and opinions of the society. Before we accept or promote any practice, we can discern to know if God approves of it. The signs of the present time are a test to our faith. We must not fail this test. We should also not loose guard because the Devil will never stop trying again and again to deceive us into doing his wish. So be vigilant and always read the signs of time correctly.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, help us to always discern correctly your will for us. Amen