33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Prv 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31, 1Th 5: 1-6, Mt 25: 14-30

 

 

Dear sisters and brothers,

Jesus will come again. We don’t know when or how, but he has promised that he will return in glory to establishing a new heaven and a new earth. We who live in the time between Jesus’ ascension and his return are called to vigilance and resourcefulness as we await the coming of our king.

Just as industrious wife takes initiative in caring for her household (Proverb 31:10-31), so the church is called to manage her affairs wisely and prudently. During this time of anticipation, we are called to use our resources to spread the gospel and to ensure the spiritual prosperity of the church. We are called to serve our Master and please him in all of actions. Our vigilance affects the way we live. By walking as ‘sons of light and sons of the day’-through obedience to God’s commands and life of prayer and love-we attest to our faith in Christ’s return (1 Th 5:5).

Every day, we have many opportunities to use the gifts God has given us. As the parable of the talents shows, two servants took risks with the money they were given, the third was afraid invested it and earned a good return. Third was afraid to take any risks, and so he hid the money and returned it to his master at the first opportunity (Mt 25: 14-30). Like the first two servants, we are also called to take risks for the kingdom of God, stepping out in faith and watching to see God move as we trust in him.

God does give us gifts and talents so that we hide them or turn them to selfish ends. Everyone of has been uniquely constituted by the Lord to play the resources he has given us. Whether it be money, abilities, time, or training and background, nothing is irrelevant. We can be assured that any initiatives we take to use our gifts will be blessed. Remember: God’s desire for his people is always much greater than ours; he will do everything he can to bring the gospel to the ends of the earth.

As we give of ourselves, we will see God’s power and glory revealed. Our active involvement in this life is truly an adventure, filled with opportunities to use all that God has given us and to see him work wonders as we do. This is our high calling. Let us accept it with gratitude and joy.

Peace and all good!

Fr. Valery Burusu

Parochial Administrator