Have we made any progress?
On this 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, as we near the end of the Liturgical
Year, we are called to reflect on our actions over this past year and consider the
fruits we have produced to offer to Our Lord, Jesus Christ, King of the Universe,
in our upcoming celebration. It is also a time to reflect on the power of His
transformative love in our lives and remind ourselves that His love can change
us, make us better versions of ourselves, and fill us with hope and inspiration.
In the first reading from the Book of Daniel, we encounter an extraordinary
vision: “I saw one like a Son of man coming, on the clouds of heaven.” This
imagery evokes a sense of majesty and authority as the Son of Man is presented
before the Ancient One, receiving dominion, glory, and kingship. This passage
challenges us to reflect on our service to God. Have we served the Lord, or have
we allowed distractions to take precedence? As we prepare for the feast of Christ
the King, this question compels us to evaluate our priorities and commitments.
The Gospel reading supports this theme. Jesus speaks to Pilate, declaring,
“For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth.” In a
world filled with confusion and misinformation, His call to listen to His voice
becomes ever more critical. It empowers us to discern the truths in our lives and
challenge the falsehoods that can lead us astray. This discernment is not just a
task but a powerful tool that can lead us to enlightenment and understanding.
Moreover, Pope Francis’ recent encyclical, “Dilexit nos,” reminds us of the
profound impact of God’s unconditional love, emphasizing that this love is not
just a passive sentiment but a dynamic force that calls us to action. It challenges
us to express this love in our interactions with others, not as a burden but as a
source of joy and fulfillment. As we reflect on our year, we must consider how we
have responded to this call. Have we fostered relationships built on
understanding and respect? Our response to God’s love should be evident in our
daily lives, bringing joy to us and those around us.
As we approach the celebration of Christ the King and contemplate the fruits
of the Spirit we have cultivated throughout the year, we should ask ourselves if
we have grown in virtues such as patience, kindness, and generosity. In this final
weekend of the Liturgical Year, let us take the time to renew our commitment to
serve God alone by dedicating more time to prayer and reflection, actively
seeking ways to serve others, and making conscious decisions that align with
God’s will. May we express His love in all we do, recognizing that each small act
of kindness and decision rooted in truth contributes to our offering to Christ the
King. In doing so, we honor Him and allow His reign to transform our lives and
the world.Fr. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor