Mass Readings and Reflection on Tuesday October 21st 2025

First Reading: (Romans 5:12, 15b, 17–19, 20b–21)

Through one man, Adam, sin and death entered the world; but through one man, Jesus Christ, grace and redemption overflow for all who receive Him.

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 40)

Response: “Here I am, Lord; I come to do Your will.”
The psalmist rejoices that God does not desire empty sacrifice, but a willing heart ready to obey His will.

Alleluia

“Be vigilant, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

Gospel: (Luke 12:35–38)

Jesus calls His disciples to be watchful and ready, like servants awaiting their master’s return, promising blessing for those found vigilant.

Reflection

Today, St. Paul gives us a sweeping summary of salvation history, what is often called the kerygma: the good news, the bad news, and the best news. Through Adam, sin enters the world, and through sin comes death. This original rupture creates a chasm between humanity and God, one we cannot bridge by our own effort. But through one obedient man, Jesus Christ, grace, redemption, and new life overflow. His obedience cancels Adam’s disobedience, and His sacrifice opens the way for us to live in grace.

The Gospel then calls us to respond. Jesus tells us, “Gird your loins” and “light your lamps.” In ancient times, this meant tucking in long garments so one could run freely. In other words: be ready. He urges us to live each day prepared for His return, whether in the first watch or the third, because the Master will come at an hour we do not expect.

If Christ were to return for you today, would you be ready? Or would you say, “Lord, give me a moment, I still need to forgive…I still need to repent…I still need to return to prayer”? Jesus warns us not to delay conversion. Vigilance is not fear, it is faithfulness. It is choosing daily prayer, Scripture, the sacraments, and a life of charity so that our hearts stay awake.

And then Jesus gives us a stunning image: if the Master finds us ready, He will seat us at table and serve us. The One who washes feet will one day satisfy every hunger of our soul in the heavenly banquet.

So how do we remain vigilant? Three simple pillars:

1. Prayer, Scripture, Sacraments, build a daily plan of grace.

2. Community, surround yourself with believers who call you higher.

3. Mission and Service, share your faith and love your neighbor.

Love is not a feeling, is willing the good of the other. When we live this way, our faith becomes dynamic, joyful, and alive.

May we stay awake, stay ready, and stay rooted in grace, so that when the Lord knocks, our lamps are already burning.

God bless you,

-Pal Ronnie-