When Jesus urges his disciples to be prepared for "the master's return" Saint Peter asks, "Is this parable meant for us?"
His question sounds vaguely like the student's perennial, "Is this going to be on the exam?"
During this troubled summer of 2016, as we suffer one shocking story after another from the United States and from around the world, everyone wonders, "How should I respond to all this?"
Newspaper editorials insist we should not grow complaisant or jaded. "Let's continue to be horrified!" or shocked, or grief-stricken, or whatever. But neither should we be terrorized or traumatized.
Many years ago, reading yet another story of a bystander killed by handgun, I realized it could happen to me. It might happen anytime or anywhere, and inevitably without warning. Since then, way back in 1990, one of our friar-priests was murdered in just that way. He made a wrong turn in an unfamiliar town and died. It could have been me; I get lost in unfamiliar streets and have passed through more than a few seedy neighborhoods.
I decided I will not carry a handgun. I would certainly rather be killed than to kill someone.
More frightening is the possibility -- probability? -- that someone I love will be murdered. Several years ago another friar died of natural, though unexpected, causes; and initial rumors suggested he'd been killed. I remember the feelings of astonished anger; it seemed inconceivable that a human being -- even a stranger -- could do such a thing to a man I loved.
In today's gospel Jesus urges two things: "Be prepared" and "Do not be afraid."
No one can say where the next terror attack might occur or who might be the victim, but we can be certain that shock and fear are no excuse for a stupid or immoral response. Constant, daily prayer that begins with the acceptance of one's vulnerability opens us to the immediate grace of God. Thus prepared, we know how to respond.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.