Friends, today is the thirty-third Sunday of ordinary time, year C. A week from now, we shall come to the end of year C. Today’s readings point toward “The end of time” and our victory in Christ. The readings speak about the rewards of faithfulness, the value of hard work, and the need to endure trials. According to Gautama Siddhartha (563-483 B.C), “Endurance is one of the most challenging disciplines, but final victory comes to the one who endures.” Therefore, let us endure until we triumph over all the forces of this world. Lord, help us stay faithful and diligent in our work and faith. Give us the strength to endure trials and the wisdom to face challenges. May we always trust in Your justice and blessings.
Friends, in today’s first reading, Malachi speaks of the day of the Lord. He paints two pictures. First, he speaks of the fate of the evil one, then the triumph of the righteous who endures till the end. This reading serves as an encouragement to help us continue patiently in good works. This shows that God sees everything and will bring justice. Malachi ends with a promise of victory; those who honor God will see the sun of righteousness rise with healing. This means that living a good life will bring blessings. God rewards those who stay faithful. Brothers and sisters, this reading encourages us to live justly and honor God. It reminds us that our actions have consequences. We should always strive to do good.
Friends, in the second reading, Paul talks about the importance of working hard. He says that they worked hard to be an example. This is to earn our earthly and heavenly living. Our Mother Church does not in any way promote laziness or idleness. She teaches us that sloth, the reluctance to work, is one of the seven capital sins. Paul teaches that everyone should work and not be idle. Idleness leads to trouble and meddling. Paul advises against being lazy. Instead, we should be productive and contribute to our community. Sadly, many Christians no longer appreciate hard work. Instead, we perpetually depend on others directly or indirectly. To make fast and cheap money, some engage in all sorts of evils like drugs, armed robbery, fraud, and even “corporate begging.” This is what Paul means by: “Now we hear that some of you are living in idleness, doing no work themselves but interfering with anyone else’s.” A lazy Christian yields easily to all sorts of vices. This reading highlights the dignity of work. It shows that hard work is pleasing to God. We should avoid idleness and always strive to be useful.
Friends, the Gospel from Luke talks about the destruction of the temple. Jesus also spoke of the imminent hardships and persecution before, during, and after this time. However, He concludes with these encouraging words: “Your endurance will win you your lives.” Today, in our families, offices, businesses, careers, and in our world at large, we face difficulties that at times question our faith. Jesus also mentions that his followers will face persecution. He promises to give them wisdom to defend themselves. This shows that Jesus is always with us, even in hard times. We must stay strong in our faith, no matter what happens. Brothers and sisters, Jesus tells us that those who endure will be saved. This means that staying faithful is very important. When we face trials, we should remember Jesus’ promise. He will give us the strength and wisdom we need. Our faith will help us endure anything. The readings of today encourage us to be faithful and diligent. They remind us that God’s justice and reward are certain. We must remain steadfast in our faith and actions. The Lord be with you …may the Almighty God bless you, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I wish you a blessed Sunday and a fruitful new week ahead of you.
