31/08/2021

The imminent return, the parousia of the Lord is still to the forefront of St. Pauls mind as he writes to the Thessalonians. No-one knows when to expect the Lord's return and for this reason we need to avoid a spiritual sleep and stay wide awake. This teaching is even more important for us 2,000 years later.

Jesus is recognised by the the devil which obeys his command and thus impresses the synagogue. Public recognition of Jesus begins and crowds start to look out for him. His reputation grows and his followers increase; the authority he displays is recognised but the crucial break through into the mainstream of religion does not happen.

Our all powerful Lord does not use force; we are made in his image and likeness and thus have freedom to choose. Our choice is guided, however, by God's revelation of himself; by the Law of the covenant and by the recorded scriptures. Our Church too as founded by the Lord has the duty  and reality of being Christ at this present moment; the Sacramental Presence is the Real Presence and each day Christ through his Priests offers his Body and Blood as our spiritual food .

I really believe this and yet I am estranged from the Church which is more concerned with the things of this world rather than with being prepared for either the return of the Lord or our being called.

Dear Lord, help me to know your will for me and show me how to cooperate with it. Let me be known in the prayers of your Mother and all the Saints.