SAINT MARTIN OF TOURS, BISHOP (MEMORIAL)

The flood came and destroyed them all.

Stop right where you are!

Some events in life have the potential to make us stop and take stock. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, is one example. So is the Covid pandemic that began in 2020. Even personal events like the sudden death of a loved one or the unexpected news of a friend’s divorce can catch us off guard and make us stop and think about our lives.

We are approaching the end of the liturgical year, and during this time, the Church chooses Scripture readings that likewise move us to stop and take stock. That’s why we read passages like today’s description of the “days of Noah” (Luke 17:26)—passages that focus on final judgment and the end of the world as we know it. These readings can be jarring and troubling, but they also invite us to ask difficult questions: What is my ultimate purpose in life? Am I pursuing that purpose with all the resources at my disposal?

Your ultimate goal is to spend eternity with God, so it makes sense to be preparing yourself for that reality every day: by spending quality time among God’s people, by seeking him in prayer, and by immersing yourself in his word. You can also prepare by loving and caring for other people, both those closest to you and those you are sometimes tempted to hold at arm’s length. Can people count on you each day to show up and do your part, to do your very best and not just slide by? Because the truth is, tomorrow is never guaranteed.

Let’s take a cue from today’s Gospel and stay alert during the day. Many people find it helpful to set alarms on their phones or watches to remind them to take medicine or make important phone calls. Maybe you can set reminders to stop and lift your heart to the Lord. Try giving yourself a wake-up call like this once a day: when the alarm sounds, offer whatever you’re doing to Jesus and ask him to make you more aware of his presence with you. Ask him to show you where he is already at work and what he might be inviting and empowering you to do in this graced moment.

“Lord, help me to live for eternity!”

2 John 4-9
Psalm 119:1-2, 10-11, 17-18
Luke 17:26-37