TODAY
Sunday Homilies
Sunday Homilies
by Joan DeMerchant
It’s easy to become complacent about life, our faith and our commitments when we are caught up in the demands of daily life. As we approach the end of this liturgical year, we are called to pay attention to what really matters. Today’s readings remind us to focus on the bigger picture of eternal life and to question our focus, our energy and how we use our resources. We are called to look away from the superficial and to remember that time is not unlimited. We do not know the day nor the hour when we will be thrust into eternity. How are we preparing for it?
by Mary M. McGlone
Highlights
1 – This parable is about being prepared. Taking the story at face value we can guess that the wise virgins were the ones who knew and cared about what they were doing. They wanted to be a part of the celebration and did everything necessary to be able to participate fully. It didn’t matter that they fell asleep, they were confident that whenever it started they would be ready — they had no worries to interfere with their siesta.
2 – Living the Gospel is not like hoarding oil or packing a backpack. It’s more like riding a bike, learning a new language or being generous. You practice until it comes naturally. For the foolish to beg “lend us some of your oil of preparation” was as absurd as saying “Give me a bit of your balance so I can ride this bike.” There are some things each person must do for her or himself and no amount of example from others can make up for their lack of action.
FR. MICK’S 2017 COLUMN – An AI generated summary
Fr. Mick delves into the topic of wisdom and the contrast between societal wisdom and divine wisdom. He stresses the importance of making an effort to seek divine wisdom, particularly through “the promptings of the spirit” within each person. The text further links these thoughts to a contemplation of life and death, especially in context with November being a month associated with death and remembrance of loved ones passed. St. Paul’s words to the Thessalonians are used as a basis to shape views about death, emphasizing that those who believe in God should not grieve like those without hope. His words provide consolation, reinforcing that we will always be with the Lord. This part highlights the necessity for community support when dealing with a loved one’s death.
Fr. Mick mentions the practice of parishes holding prayer services in November for those grieving, suggesting personal invitations for those who have experienced a recent loss. The gathering is seen as a way to affirm and propagate beliefs about life and death offered by faith. He proposes ongoing efforts for providing support to those who are grieving, beyond just one event. Suggestions include establishing a support group or assigning parishioners to stay in regular contact with bereaved individuals.
SOURCE: National Catholic Reporter: Cycle A Sunday Resources feature series. View the full series.
