The Catholic Calendar for Friday, August 31, 2001
The Twenty-First Week in Ordinary Time
Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
Psalm 97:1-2,5-6,10-12
Matthew 25:1-13
Full text: http://www.nccbuscc.org/nab/index.htm
A Reflection from Holy Scripture . . .
Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour. Mt 25:13
Today's Gospel is a strong reminder of the need to be ready and
waiting for the Lord's coming. We are called to daily conversion, to
live each day in the presence of the Lord, so that we are open to His
coming and open to the invitation of Heaven. Jesus speaks in a
parable today, likening the reign of God to ten bridesmaids who went
out to welcome the groom. Five of the bridesmaids were foolish as
they did not bring flasks of oil to keep their torches from going
out. Having to go back to get oil, they missed the arrival of the
groom and the opportunity of entering the wedding banquet with Him.
In today's parable, it makes sense to bring oil to keep the torches
burning. If we apply this analogy to our spiritual life, it makes
sense to bring the 'oil' of our soul along the path of life so that
our light won't extinguish and we are open to the presence of the
Lord whenever He comes with His invitation of Heaven. What is this
'oil' of the soul? Our Lady tells us at Medjugorje that through
Prayer, Fasting, Reconciliation, the Eucharist, reflecting on the
Bible, we can grow in holiness. These ways are the oil of our souls
which keep our light shining and allow us to be ready for Our Lord's
coming.
Today, Our Lady, Queen of Heaven, pray for us, that we may grow in
holiness and understanding. Help us to prepare our souls in love to
receive Jesus and the Kingdom of Heaven.
We ask this through Jesus, your Son.
Amen.
- Cliodhna Doyle ([EMAIL PROTECTED])
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