Friday of week 29 in Ordinary Time 

Ephesians 4:1-6

Psalm 23(24):1-6

Luke 12:54-59

WINDS OF CHANGE 

Following Christ's address to His disciples, He then directed His attention toward the crowd to provide insights concerning global affairs, specifically His second coming. His audience, primarily engaged in agriculture and maritime activities, would logically possess an understanding of environmental signs related to impending weather changes. For instance, if clouds appeared in the west, precipitation could likely be anticipated, given that the sea lies in that direction relative to Jerusalem. Additionally, a southern wind would indicate warmer conditions due to the presence of arid deserts south of Jerusalem.

Consequently, this understanding enabled them to make informed decisions regarding their agricultural practices—either sheltering their crops or transporting them as necessary. They could seize opportunities for harvesting when conditions permitted or stockpile their resources. Thus, if they were astute in recognizing weather patterns, they could effectively predict rain or heat.

Christ anticipated that they would similarly be able to discern the signs of His return and the culmination of the final days. He sought their wisdom in matters concerning their spiritual well-being, much like their prudence in observing weather changes.

Nevertheless, it is widely acknowledged that nature is inherently unpredictable. Christ's intention was for them to grasp the necessity of discerning salvation as a privilege, particularly as the timing of His return remains uncertain. With God permitting variability in weather conditions, the message is clear: the present moment is the time for action; it is either now or never.

Every generation tends to consider itself intellectually superior to its predecessors, benefiting from the accumulated knowledge of those who came before. Our current society assumes a significant advantage, having built upon over two millennia of enlightenment, enabling a clearer understanding of the signs to which Christ referred. Yet, it is plausible that our generation may also overlook certain essential components of this knowledge. The individuals Christ addressed, including His disciples, struggled to comprehend His message, and centuries later, this challenge persists.

Therefore, our focus should not solely be on signs indicating the end times, but rather on indications that illuminate the righteous path. It is my earnest prayer for guidance today, recognizing that You represent the way, the truth, and the light. By maintaining focus on the correct path, we can navigate concerns regarding the final days and Christ's eventual return, confident that Jesus, The Way, will lead us where we need to be and May we find support in the intercession of our Mother the Blessed Virgin Mary. Amen.