The Catholic Calendar
and Daily Meditation

Saturday, December 10, 2011


Saturday of the Second Week of Advent



Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
http://new.usccb.org/bible/readings/121011.cfm


Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11
Psalm 80:2ac and 3b, 15-16, 18-19
Matthew 17:9a, 10-13


A reflection on today's Sacred Scripture:

O Shepherd of Israel, hearken,
From your throne upon the cherubim, shine forth.
Rouse your power. (Psalm 80:2)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVMAklBA7ps


It seems as though there has always been interest in the "end times" - perhaps for various reasons. For some it is a matter of curiosity, for others a means for commercial gain, and for others it is the impetus to put everything into its proper place.

How individual people "get things in their proper place" also shows tremendous variance. For one, it may mean getting their financial house in order, for another it is making sure their possessions and interests will be properly managed, and for others it means that the end of life as we know it, won't be the absolute end, but the beginning of something better!

Depending on our perspective will determine how we use the time we have. It accounts for our state of mind and it colors all our interactions.

Instead of being frantic about trying to control what (to a certain extent) is uncontrollable, we have the opportunity to control what indeed is within our power - that is, to choose to live for life ever after, through the activities and choices we exercise in the "here and now."

Doing so, helps to erase some of the fear of the unknown and helps us to trust and focus instead on what we already know, that is: the faithfulness of God who promises eternal life for those who love and serve Him.

::: Donna Raye Nelson, OCDS | email: drn3rd(at)hughes(dot)net