Today’s readings center on the promise of a Messiah and a likely time when that promise will be fulfilled. Further there is advice on how we should journey while waiting for the Messiah to make his final coming.

In these two years, countless people have met their untimely end. People from all age brackets were infected with the Covid-19 virus and breathed their last. While it was heartbreaking for us, it revealed to us the fleeting nature of our earthly life and the imminent arrival of our final departure.

Many people focus on that last day and how it will happen and what the signs are, but one pertinent question crops up – pray that you will be able to stand before the Son of Man.

In this day and age, reality entertainment shows which highlight the talent of individuals are a rage. The participants in their quest to get the most votes practice their song or act to perfection and then gain millions of followers online.

Based on what we have read today let us for a few days, during our prayer time, practice to stand before the King of kings and Lord of Lords. As we get into your prayer time, let us imagine ourselves in the Heavenly courts before our Lord Jesus. ‘What will we tell him?’ Will we be able to stand there rejoicing or will we be ashamed?

How can we avoid a situation where, we will tremble at the sight of the Lord? The second reading tells us – May the Lord increase more and more – not wealth, relationships, properties, achievements. And then it says – may your love for one another increase and may you increase in holiness. Holiness is separation from the world’s way of thinking and acting and an increase in intimacy with the Lord. We are encouraged to live in a way that pleases the Lord. When we opt for such a life, it will often displease people around us.

As I chose to be a full-timer, I began to be misunderstood. A dear family member whom I met was frothing mad with me. The person told me to get a regular 9 to 5 job and not waste my time and life saying I was doing Church work. The person was so convinced my life was a failure and that I was trying to live depending on others. Though at no point did I request any such help. I did not and could not offer up any defense. But a short time later when the person saw me on their Gospel channel, it was an eye opener to them about what I was doing and how God’s hand is upon my life. I had not gathered immense savings or built my own home but God is using me with what he has gifted me. The word says stand erect and lift up your heads for your deliverance is near.

Prayer: Abba Father, may I see the face of your Son every time I pray that I may be prepared for that day when I will stand before him. Amen