Thursday 21st Week in Ordinary Time August 31, 2023

Fr. Rick’s Two Minute Thursday, 21st Week in Ordinary Time

August 31, 2023, Matthew 24:42-51

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/thursday-twenty-first-week-ordinary-time   

Stealing Second Base. 

Imagine you just got a base hit and are on first base. You get a comfortable lead because you want to steal second base. Now is not the time to daydream. Your total focus is on the pitcher and every move he makes. You have studied him well, and you know all of his movements. So, your timing has to be perfect. If you slip up in any way, you will be thrown out at first, trying to get back where it’s safe. 

Staying awake is very important if you want to accomplish your goal. What is our focus throughout the day? First, think of what you will be doing today. Then, you can hope for the best and see what happens. Sometimes, you might get lucky, and everything works out how you want. But what happens if it doesn’t? 

Life can be very frustrating at times. However, Jesus offers us a sure solution. He says, “Stay awake.” He knows the perfect way for something to benefit us and everyone else. His way will bring his goodness into every situation we watch for Him. “My ways are not your ways” (Isaiah 55:9). 

His Way benefits us in this life and the next. He can see in the future how every choice we make works out. Even the most difficult times can be the best for us because they challenge us to greatness and to be more than who we are, the Presence of Christ in the world. 

Gospel Challenge:

There is no worry and anxiety when we follow Jesus. Ask Him to be with you throughout your day and call to mind His Presence, acknowledging that He is with you whatever you do. You will steal second base every time.

IGNITE THE FIRE!  

Fr. Rick Pilger, IC

pastor    

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