32nd Sunday in Ordinary TimeReadings: Wisdom 6:12–16; Psalm 63; 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18; Matthew 25:1–13
Today’s readings invite us to live with wisdom, hope, and readiness for the Lord. The Book of Wisdom reminds us that true wisdom begins when we sincerely seek God. It is not simply knowing many things, but learning to ask each day: “Lord, what do you want me to do today?” This question transforms our daily decisions into opportunities to respond to God’s will. The Psalmist expresses the longing of a heart that has discovered its deepest desire: “For you my soul is thirsting, O God, my God.” Such longing keeps our relationship with God alive and prevents our faith from becoming a mere habit. Saint Paul strengthens this relationship with the hope of the Resurrection, reminding us that death does not have the final word and that our ultimate destiny is to be with the Lord forever. In the Gospel, Jesus presents the parable of the ten virgins, five wise and five foolish. All are waiting for the bridegroom, but only five have prepared enough oil for their lamps. Good intentions alone are not enough; love requires preparation, commitment, and perseverance. The oil represents the faithfulness that we cultivate through prayer, charity, good decisions, and daily acts of love. We cannot suddenly create a lifetime of relationship with God at the last moment. Being ready for Christ does not mean living in fear of His coming, but living each day in such a way that His coming becomes our greatest joy. True wisdom teaches us to seek Him, hope gives us confidence in His promises, and faithful love keeps our lamps burning. The best preparation for meeting Christ tomorrow is to live in communion with Him today. Let’s reflect: Do I begin each day by asking what God wants of me, and am I transforming my good intentions into concrete acts of faith, love, and service that keep my heart ready to welcome Him?
Don Giorgio