Jesus said to his disciples:
Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy
from carousing and drunkenness
and the anxieties of daily life,
and that day catch you by surprise like a trap.
For that day will assault everyone
who lives on the face of the earth.
Be vigilant at all times
and pray that you have the strength
to escape the tribulations that are imminent
and to stand before the Son of Man.
The peace of the Lord be with you. The words from today’s Gospel seem to be so pertinent to the times we live in. It is a time of great anxiety for the world as a whole. There are so many unknown variables that it makes planning difficult. At times like this it would not be uncommon for us to seek out comfort from things that can become destructive over time. Jesus urges us to be careful of such things and to seek out strength through time in prayer. Prayer helps us to think about and voice our concerns versus keeping them stuffed away inside ourselves. Prayer may lead us to seek out the support of our community, to seek out inspired writings, seek out restorative activities and or develop new insights that will offer comfort thereby reducing stress. May the grace that comes from God wash over each of us and renew our strength. In the name of the Father,the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.