Read 2 John 4-9, Ps. 119:1-2,10-11,17-18, Luke 17:26-37
“As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of man.” (Luke 17:26)
Noah was privileged to see ahead of his time but when he warned the people, they all mocked him. God often reveals his plans to certain people but such plans always seem unbelievable until they happen.
By the time the rain began, it was too late for the people to enter the ark. No one knows what the next moment holds, act right and remain steadfast even if everyone else is laughing at you. If God has put something in your heart to do and you are convinced it is right, keep at it. One day the ark you are building right will be your saving grace.
Lot and his family were like outcasts in Sodom and Gomorrah. I can imagine the people laughing at them for not joining in with their sinful behaviors. The fact that something is popular (or generally accepted by the majority) in society does not make it right.
Again, the fact that “everybody is doing it” does not mean that God is not offended by it. Do not take God’s mercy for granted. Jesus says that on that day, many would be going about their daily routines, eating, drinking, buying, selling, planting, building, and so on and judgment would happen like a surprise. Then we would all face the consequences of our actions.
Jesus also added: “Remember Lot’s wife. Whosoever seeks to gain life will lose it.” If we seek self-actualization (fulfillment, salvation, happiness) from the riches of this life, we would never be satisfied. This is why Jesus refused to bow to the devil in exchange for the riches of the world and its kingdom. (cf. Matthew 4:8-10). The earlier we realized that we cannot take anything we didn’t bring into this world, the wiser we would be.
In today’s first reading, John calls our attention to the coming of deceivers: “Many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh; such is the deceitful one and the antichrist.” Of course, we have deceivers today who have turned religion into a worship of riches rather than the worship of Christ.
While downplaying sin, they teach financial freedom, while watering down biblical doctrines, they promote unnatural sexual behaviors. To be an antichrist is to be against Christ; to teach what Christ himself condemned – to use the name of Christ as a cover for licentiousness. Take a look at how people dress to church today, consider our so-called gospel music, sensual dance steps, emphasis on entertainment, and so on. Apply the wisdom of Noah – don’t follow the crowd!
Let us pray: Heavenly Father, increase my wisdom like that of Noah. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saint Martin of Tours, Bishop. Bible Study: 2 John 4-9, Ps. 119:1-2,10-11,17-18, Luke 17:26-37)
© Rev. Fr. Evaristus Abu