November 12, St. Josaphat

Your word is forever, O Lord.-- Psalm 119:89

Mass readings: Wisdom 7:22-8:1 / Luke 17:20-25

Meeting God in the Moment

In an article titled ''The God of the Inbetweens,'' Youth Specialties co-founder Mike Yaconelli remarks that for much of his life he has looked for God in the ''momentous'' -- while God has been waiting in the ''moment.'' In today's Gospel, the Pharisees asked Jesus when the kingdom of God was coming. They were waiting for some momentous miracle, some spectacular sign, that would demonstrate that God's kingdom had arrived. As a result, they missed the tremendous significance of the moment -- God, clothed in human flesh, living in their midst, walking and talking with them.

In my preoccupation with things extraordinary, do I miss the presence of God in ordinary, everyday situations and people: a gentle sunrise, a baby's smile, a nourishing meal, an encouraging word, a good night's sleep, a warm hug . . . ?

Prayer: Lord, may I meet You and greet You in all the moments of my life.