LAITY REFLECTION FOR THE 32ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME.
1st Reading: Daniel 12:1-3
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 16:5 and 8.9-10.11 (R. 1)
2nd Reading: Hebrews 10:11-14.18
Gospel Acclamation: Luke 21:36
Gospel Reading: Mark 13:24-32
Michael Umande
```LESSON 4️⃣ (BOOK OF PSALMS)```
From the Responsorial Psalm (Chp. 16)
_O Lord, it is you who are my portion and cup_ (v. 5)
The Levites, who were responsible for religious ritual, were not assigned land when Joshua allotted territory to the tribes of Israel (cf. Josh 13:7). They were told that the Lord would be their heritage (cf. Deut 10:9), and that they would have to trust in God for their sustenance rather than the work of their hands.
From this backdrop, we, too, can learn to trust in God with our life, family, job, career, business, etc. Not forcing our will but letting the will of God be done. Not pursuing worldly things but being contented with the little gifts of God and growing in God's love.
Chinwe Ann Udechukwu
The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken
These sounds so frightening, breath taking,the imagery of all these signals significant and transformative event associated with the coming of God's judgement.
From these too, we learn that this earthly things are temporary for the sun, moon, and stars we take to be more stable and reliable to undergo such tumult, it means only God's kingdom is eternal.
Secondly, this frightening situation urge us to be always vigilant and ready because we were not told the exact time such events will take place.
Lastly, irrespective of this tumultuous event, we are still reminded to trust and hope in God as the controller of the universe, rather than being frightened, we should be alert, be hopeful and focus on the eternal things rather than this worldly things that is temporary.
May God grant us the grace to always be ready whenever the time calls.
Edward Arene Michael
Reflection
Great events are normally preceded by spectacular opening ceremonies. The second coming of Jesus will be the greatest event ever witnessed by mankind. To usher it in, then, we should expect the greatest spectacular opening ceremony! It will be breath-taking for many, and even frightening for others, for as the gospel reading informs us, "The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken" (Mk 13:24-25)! However, let us not be frightened. Rather, let us be like those who joyfully anticipate the spectacular opening ceremony of the Olympics, and prepare well for it by buying tickets, etc. Let us buy our tickets online now, not via the internet, but by faith, and let us keep them well by faith-filled lifestyles.
In a not shell, Heaven and Hell is very real. So be careful how you live your life.
Shalom.
Martins Terkimbi Uker
Reflection on Sunday Readings
In the readings for this Sunday, we are reminded of the ultimate triumph of God's sovereignty and the eternal hope promised to the faithful. The first reading from Daniel 12:1-3 speaks of a time of great tribulation but also the assurance that those who remain steadfast will shine like the stars in the heavens. This calls us to live lives of wisdom and righteousness, reflecting God’s light in a world often clouded by darkness.
The responsorial psalm, Psalm 16, proclaims the joy and security found in God's presence: “You will show me the path of life, the fullness of joy in Your presence.” As we navigate challenges, this psalm assures us that God is our refuge and our ultimate inheritance.
In Hebrews 10:11-14, 18, the writer emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ’s one perfect sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. This reminds us that our salvation is not earned but a gift, urging us to live in gratitude and holiness.
Adeyanju Adenike Regina
My Reflection
The first reading and the Gospel reading is telling us to trust in God ,prayerful and do our best to be sin free by always reflecting on our way of life and the kind example we show people around us as a Christian. No matter circumstances or challenges surrounding us God will delivered us. He said those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament and those who turn many to righteousness like the stars for ever and ever. My brothers and sisters let's be wise in Christ and try our means leading people to God by our ways of life and also watch at all times and pray that we may be able to stand before the son of man. Amen
Kuyoro Paul Oluwaseun
My reflection
Salvation they say is a personal journey, but it's not meant to be a solo experience. While salvation is individual, we all have a responsibility to share the path with others. We aren't expected to keep the joy and freedom we have found to ourselves but rather invite others to join us. By guiding others to righteousness, we will shine like the stars forever, reflecting God's glory. Our reward for sharing our faith is eternal radiance, illuminating the lives of those around us.
Let us therefore embrace our role as beacons of light, leading others to salvation and reflecting God's love. We need to lead others to righteousness and shine like the stars forever. Your reward awaits. May God bless us as we fulfill our Christian duty to share the Good News and may God preserve us as we take refuge in him through Christ our Lord.
