In last week’s Gospel readings from Matthew 24 and 25, we heard Jesus again and again exhorting his disciples to stay awake and be prepared for the return of the Master. In today’s first reading from 1 Thessalonians 5, we hear nearly the exact same language from St. Paul. “But you are not in darkness, for that day to overtake you like a thief. Therefore, let us not sleep as the rest do, but let us stay alert and sober.” Are we getting the message yet?
In today’s Gospel reading from Luke 4, Jesus casts out a demon from a man. There were people who witnessed this. The Scripture tells us, “They were amazed and said to one another, ‘What is there about his word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.’ ” They ask a great question, one that I want us to ponder today. What is there about his word?
How do you answer that question in your life? Perhaps a few follow-up questions are in order. Do you know Jesus’ words? Do they have an effect on you? If so, what is that effect? Are they just pleasant teachings? Nice platitudes? Or are they life changing? Are they words to live by? Are they words you are trying to live out? For me, it seems the more I know, the harder they get, and the more I want to try.
Father, give us an ever greater hunger to know the words of Jesus. May His words have power and authority in our lives as we strive to follow them daily. Amen.
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