The Gospel reading today is from Luke 6, the Sermon on the Plain. Jesus speaks the Beatitudes. There is a difference between Luke's version and Matthew's version in that in Luke, Jesus also gives the other side of the Beatitudes, each of which begins with "Woe to you..."
In the first reading from 1 Corinthians 7, St. Paul issues a warning to the Corinthians. "I tell you, brothers, the time is running out...For the world in its present form is passing away."
Did Paul think that the world was ending? That Jesus' return was imminent? Perhaps. Yet here we are 2000 years later and his words still ring true. Time is running out. Isn't it funny how so many act as though they will live forever? (In this world, I mean.) Yet every breath you take is one breath closer to your last. And the world in its present form is still passing away. You don't have to be an "end timer" to prepare for your last day. You just need to remember that this may be it. Are you in a state of grace? Are you ready?
Father, help us to always keep the end in mind, whether it is our last day or the return of your Son. Help us to always remember that time is running out. Amen.
As time runs out, it is more important than ever to teach the faith. You can help others learn in a minute with A Minute in the Church, available at www.GusLloyd.com.
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