As we approach the end of our journey through Matthew's Gospel, the readings turn our attention to a timeless question: How should we live while we wait for God's promised future? Zephaniah speaks of the Day of the Lord. The psalmist prays, “Teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts to wisdom.” Paul reminds us that no one knows when that day will come, and Jesus tells a parable about servants awaiting their master's return.
The central issue in all our readings is not whether God will come. It is this: When God comes, what kind of people will we have become while waiting? With that in mind, Matthew is not inviting us to calculate dates or predict the future. He is inviting us to become faithful disciples, ready to meet God whenever that day arrives.
Looking forward to Sunday when we come together to reflect on these texts and to hear a lecture entitled “Pass the Turkey, Hold the Grudge.”
Fr. Karl