Lord, this is the people that longs to see your face. — Psalm 24 (see 6)

Mass Readings: Ephesians 4:1-6 / Luke 12:54-59 

Signs and Times 

First it was Y2K. Then came the rash of 2012 apocalyptic movies in wake of the predictions of the Mayan calendar. Despite our great cultural and technological advances, we’re much like the people of Jesus’ day: We can’t resist the temptation to interpret our times without spelling out our impending doom. 

In today’s Gospel, Jesus criticizes those who try to read the signs of the “earth and sky” and rather, points them to their need for repentance. I admit that with all the happenings in the world right now, I too wonder if we aren’t moving toward some cataclysm. Then I hear Jesus saying, “Don’t look to the wars, or to the warming of the Earth. Look at your heart. Make that right, and all will be well.” 

Prayer: God of heaven and earth, help me to look only to You.