Friday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time
Luke 21: 29-33
Trusting in God’s enduring promises

In today’s Gospel, Jesus encourages us to be mindful of the signs that surround us and to place our trust in God’s steadfast word. He uses the image of the fig tree to illustrate that, just as we can recognize the budding leaves as a signal of summer’s return, we should also be attentive to the signs of God’s Kingdom emerging in our lives. Jesus reassures us that regardless of the changing seasons or the challenges we face, we are never alone. God is always present with us, and His Kingdom is near, inspiring us to approach life with open eyes and hopeful hearts. This reminder empowers us to actively seek and embrace the divine presence in our everyday experiences.

However, Jesus cautions us against fixating too much on pinpointing the precise timing of the Kingdom’s coming. That future is solely in God’s hands. Our role is to have faith that, even when everything else diminishes, God’s word will endure. His promise of love, justice, and salvation serves as an anchor that nothing—be it crisis, fear, or trial—can disturb.

Throughout history, many have pondered the end times, with some fearing that God’s Kingdom signifies disaster. However, Jesus imparts that the Kingdom should not invoke fear but instead offer deep hope. For those pursuing justice, yearning for peace, and striving for the welfare of others, God’s Kingdom is already present, much like seeds silently developing in the earth, poised to blossom.

We are invited to partake in this Kingdom through our expressions of love, kindness, and mercy. Let us embrace each day illuminated by His promises, drawing strength from the hope that, despite the world’s uncertainties, God’s word remains true, and His Kingdom is always near.

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Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2024