Thursday of the 25th week in ordinary time
Ecclesiastes 1: 2-11 Luke 9: 7-9
Theme: All is vanity!
In the 1st reading of today, we are all reminded of the fact that the wealth and comfort we acquire here on earth are all vanities. None of them is going to go beyond our life here on earth. The main question that is worth reflecting on today is, with this awareness, why do some of us live our lives as if how we live our lives here on earth does not really matter? One thing that is certain from the 1st reading of today is the fact that we must be mindful of the way we lead our lives, because they will eventually determine what will happen to us after our life here on earth. Suffice it to say that our life here on earth is temporary and will come to an end at a particular point in time, so we must be mindful of how we live our lives, in preparation for the life after here.
This reminder is very important in our own time, when so many people are living their lives as if it begins here on earth and ends here. We forget that there is a repercussion for the way we choose to live our lives here on earth. Never live a careless life, because the day of reckoning will surely come, and you must be ready and prepared for it. Remember that all the flashy things that the world is offering you will not stand the test of time, at the end of your earthly pilgrimage. Let the love of God guide you in your words and actions, and you will never have reasons to regret at the end of your life on earth. When you have this consciousness, you will never step on people to get to the top, nor will you treat people as if you are their God. Instead, you will be more comfortable to live a life of humility and service, as a follower of Christ.
In the gospel reading of today from St. Luke, we see a worried Herod the Tetrarch, when he heard about Jesus, knowing that he has already beheaded John the Baptist. This simply reiterates the saying that there is no peace for the wicked. Probably he felt that with the death of John the Baptist, there will be none like him again, only for him to hear about Jesus. One thing we must always remember is the fact that when Jesus is involved in any situation in our life, no one can stand against it or bring it to an end. Let us be mindful of the saying “Vanity upon Vanity, all is Vanity”, it will help us to be mindful of our actions and stay on the right path that leads to eternal life. May the Lord bless his words in our hearts, in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit, Amen. Peace be with you.