A Jesuit Catholic University
in Omaha, Nebraska, since 1878

[3] Jer 33:14-16 Ps 25:4-5, 8-9, 10+14 1 Thess 3:12-4:2 Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections

In order to really understand today’s readings I think it is important to focus on one of the most fundamental aspects of the second coming of Jesus, in that we do not know when he is coming.

In the second reading, 1 Thessalonians, we are instructed to conduct ourselves in a way that pleases God so that we can be “blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his holy ones.” What does it mean to please God? Throughout his ministry, Jesus tells us to give up everything and follow him, turn the other cheek, forgive one another, and love our enemies. I know that if I were to reflect on the events of my day before I turn in every night, I would be disappointed. So often we cherish our belongings, we go looking for a fight, we hold grudges, and disparage our enemies. Too often we justify our actions. Too often we convince ourselves that we’ve done enough. Too often we fall asleep wrapped in the duvet of our own complacency.

What does it mean to please God? In Luke’s gospel Jesus says, “Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent.” We are called to be constantly alert for his arrival and to prepare ourselves. We are called to be vigilant at all times.

We do not know when he is coming back. But we are asked to operate at full capacity, full strength, and full speed. We are asked to maintain this pace for an indefinite amount of time. It is as though we have entered into a race, but the distance is unknown. We don’t know where the finish line is drawn. However, this uncertainty should not be discouraging. We should not focus on the intimidating nature of a never-ending race. Instead, we should refuse to fall into patterns of complacency and focus on how best we can serve God each day.