23-Oct-15

Gospel LK 12:54-59
Jesus said to the crowds,
“When you see a cloud rising in the west
you say immediately that it is going to rain–and so it does;
and when you notice that the wind is blowing from the south
you say that it is going to be hot–and so it is.
You hypocrites!
You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky;
why do you not know how to interpret the present time?
“Why do you not judge for yourselves what is right?
If you are to go with your opponent before a magistrate,
make an effort to settle the matter on the way;
otherwise your opponent will turn you over to the judge,
and the judge hand you over to the constable,
and the constable throw you into prison.
I say to you, you will not be released
until you have paid the last penny.”
Reflection:
Today's gospel is about repentance. Jesus is echoing the message of John the Baptist, "Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near."
It brings to mind the voice of my mother saying, "Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today."
This notice appeared on a church calendar:
"Confession available by appointment. Reminder -Those people who expect salvation at the eleventh hour often die at 10:30. Postponement is perilous in spiritual matters."
In spiritual matters, procrastination can be dangerous to the soul.
So, why do I put off dealing with my own transgressions? Truthfully, partly because I tend to presume on the good nature of God.
Readers of these reflections know that because we are made in God's image, I often compare human nature to the nature of God.
As parents we have all experienced a child whom we dearly love that misbehaves time and again.
Finally, out of concern for the child's future, we reluctantly impose punishment. Perhaps we've even said, and really meant it, "This hurts me more than it does you."
Just as it is dangerous for a child to take for granted the good nature of a loving parent, it is also dangerous for me to presume on the good nature of my loving God.

"Procrastination is like a credit card: it's a lot of fun until you get the bill." Christopher Parker