NOT FOR WRATH
For you yourselves know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief at night. – 1 Thessalonians 5:2
The year 2011 saw several devastating natural calamities that led to many deaths. There was the tsunami in Japan that caused 15,845 confirmed deaths. There was tropical storm
Sendong that devastated Cagayan de Oro and its neighboring areas that
killed more than 1,000 people and is considered that year’s deadliest
storm. There were changes in weather patterns that led to unexpected
rains. There was even a movie, 2012, that predicted that the world would
end in 2012, according to the Mayan calendar.
As I write this reflection, these fears and questions continue to exist. The unstable financial market in the U.S. and in Europe, unrest in parts of the Middle East, and rising prices of commodities give people enough cause to worry.
But our reassurance comes from the verses that follow in today’s
reading. In 1 Thessalonians 5:6, it says, “So then let us not sleep as
others do, but let us keep awake and be sober.” And in verse 9, it
continues, “For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain
salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Let us therefore take heed. Joy Sosoban (jsosoban@gmail.com)
Reflection:
Gird up the loins of your mind, live soberly, and set your hopes
completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus
Christ. (1 Peter 1:13)
Grant us the grace to be sober and awake, Lord, awaiting Your coming.
St. Gregory the Great, pope and doctor of the Church, pray for us.
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