First Reading: 1Cor 1:1-9; Psalm: 145. R. v. 1b; Gospel: Mt 24:42-51

THE SHORTNESS OF TIME

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

A story was told of three apprentice devils that were planning to come to the earth to tempt and ruin souls as a way of gaining more experience in their training. They discussed with Satan, the chief of the devils on how they wished to execute their plans. The first said: ‘I will tell them there is no God.’ Satan said to him ‘You will not be able to deceive them by that for they know there is God.’ The second said: ‘I will tell them there is no hell.’ Satan laughed and said to him ‘They also know there is hell.’ The third devil said ‘I will tell them not to hurry for there is enough time.’ And immediately Satan replied ‘Very good, you will ruin numerous souls.’

Jesus’ parable of the unfaithful servant was a warning to his disciples. As future leaders of the Church, they would be responsible for taking care of the Christian community during the physical absence of Christ. Christ was instructing them to be vigilant and prepared for his sudden return. In other words, they ought to embrace the life of faithfulness to their duties, doing what must be done immediately.

Procrastination is evil; it is the thief of time. Tomorrow is not certain; it may never come. So as we make our plans for the future, we are invited to also be spiritually watchful and faithful to our Christian commitment so that we will not be taken unawares. For we all know that death comes unannounced. So whatever should be done that is just and upright should be done immediately without delay. For we shall all give account of how well we lived our lives. And only those who are always spiritually vigilant will give good accounts.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord Jesus, may we use our time wisely and efficiently as we await your coming. Amen.