“I tell you, brothers and sisters, the time is running out,” St. Paul tells us in this Sunday’s Second Reading (1Cor 7:29-31)
Paul’s warning becomes more personal to us as we get into our senior years, as we contemplate the brevity and fragility of life. As one more scripture passage reminded us a few weeks ago, “One day is like a thousand years and a thousand years like one day.” (Peter 3:8)
So how do we take this reminder on the shortness of time? I would say, let us live every day with the pure intentions of following God’s will and commands and wishing everyone’s goodness and well-being.
I would also suggest that we reflect on our renowned senior world leaders’ commitment, fidelity, and courage, like Pope Francis, to make this world a better place. Despite their old age, they are actively seeking what is best for people. They continuously face the world arena to deal with conflicts and sufferings, to bring to mind God’s purpose and will.
Like them, we must face each day with courage and power to change one’s life to benefit others and bring progress to our world. Every day and every moment is precious. The words of the Gospel this Sunday ring true, “This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.”
We must always keep in mind and recover the vision of Jesus Christ: a kingdom of peace, justice, truth, love, mercy, equality, unity, and dignity for all people. This vision demands a response that involves not only a change in attitude but a change of life.
Explicating this vision, the authors of Sacra Pagina’s commentary on the Gospel of Mark state:
“Above all, it demands hope: the confidence that God is for us, the trust that God cares for us and guides our lives, and the conviction that God wants us to share eternal life with the risen Christ in the fullness of God’s kingdom.”
As we hear of Simon, Andrew, John, and James in this Sunday’s Gospel, drop everything to follow Jesus, let us reflect on our calling. May it be aligned to the vision of Christ to bring healing, peace, and progress in this world where people of every race, color, language, gender, and character can enjoy freedom, liberty, and justice!
Your loving pastor,
Fr. Rodel "Odey" Balagtas