Reflection for Sunday November 26, 2023

Gospel Reading: Mt 25:31-46

Today is the last Sunday of the Liturgical year and the Feast of Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Our readings today deal with three themes, Jesus as a shepherd that seeks and cares for his flocks, the reign of Jesus as king, and the final judgment with the separation of the goats and sheep.  Through the separating of the goats and sheep Jesus gives us the seven corporal works of mercy. He tells us that it is through the service of others that we serve Jesus. It is clear that we should seek to be the sheep in the parable. The sheep are the ones that feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, visit the imprisoned, and bury the dead. Sheep also need to know and recognize their shepherd. As we celebrate Jesus as our king, reflect on how well you know Jesus and what you do to serve Jesus through the service of others. What is one thing you can do during Advent to grow closer to our King and to serve others?

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Reflection for Sunday November 19, 2023

​Gospel Reading: Mt 25:14-30

In the parable, a master entrusts each of his three servants a talent or ability. Afterward, he leaves for a business trip and leaves them with their talents. To the first servant, the master entrusted 5 talents, which the first servant doubled. The second servant was entrusted with two talents, which he also doubled. The last servant was entrusted with only one talent, which out of fear and impulse he decided to bury. When the master returned, he rewarded the first two servants for their diligence and wise investments. However, the third servant was punished and gained consequences for his lack of trust and faith. Likewise, we Christians are born with God-given gifts, which God expects us to use with diligence and faith toward his purposes. The Christians who neglect their talents are bound to face consequences afterward.

Through this parable, the calling of God is clear; God desires us to get the most out of the talents and opportunities he provides us, he wants us to overcome fear with faith, and he calls us to use our talents towards his purposes. Reflect on this question: No matter how seemingly small your talents appear, are you investing them to grow and accomplish God’s purposes for you? If not, what decisions can you start taking to start engaging with your God-given talents?

This week's reflection is by Matias, La Salle College High School class of 2027

Reflection for Sunday November 12, 2023 

Sunday Gospel: Mt 25:1-13

In this gospel reading, we hear how Heaven is like a wedding feast ten virgins were attending. Five of the women were well prepared and brought oil for their lamps in case they had to wait as it was dark. The other five did not bring any and started to plead with the others for some of their oil when the feast began much later than anticipated, well into the evening. Since it was dark the five smart women who had brought oil could see but would not share their oil with the five who were not prepared.  The five unprepared women were told to go to the market to buy oil for themselves. While at the market, they missed the wedding feast and when they returned, the doors were shut. They pleaded to Jesus to let them in, but Jesus said, “This parable shows us that we must always be prepared to receive God to enter heaven.” Preparing for God is very important. Those who do not lead a life to prepare for Heaven will not be accepted into the Kingdom of God.  Those who do lead a life preparing for Heaven will be accepted and receive the reward of eternal life. What can you do this week to prepare for the wedding feast of heaven?

This week's reflection is by Owen, OMC parish school class of 2024

Reflection for Sunday November 5, 2023

Sunday Gospel:  Mt 23:1-12

This Sunday's Gospel deals with authority and contains warnings about the misuse of authority. Ultimately, Jesus tells his disciples to recognize the authority of the Pharisees and scribes but to always prioritize God's authority. God is meant to be our teacher, Father, and Master. It is a great reminder for us too. Are we prioritizing God's role and teachings in our life? Do we look to what God has revealed and taught or are we overly concerned other sources of authority.  Jesus is also warning us against misusing any authority that we may have. We are called to follow the example of Jesus and be servant leaders rather then placing burdens on others. How are you focusing on God's love and authority rather than worldly authority? How are you using your authority to serve and help those around you?