25 September | EVERYONE
“But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. For it will come as a snare on all those who dwell on the face of the whole earth." Luke 21: 34,35
The expression "take heed to yourselves" does not refer to observing something simply with the physical eyes but rather with those of the soul. It is an invitation to reflect, to consider one's own actions without haste, to analyze, and to think. Jesus' counsel alludes to our tendency to live with spiritual levity. Most human beings live as if this life will never end. But the Lord warns that the last day "will come like a snare on all who dwell on the face of the whole earth."
This world and this life are not everything. It is not possible to go with the flow of immediatism and live only for gluttony, drunkenness, and the passing worries of everyday life. There is a tomorrow, an eternal day for which everyone should prepare, lest "that day come on you unexpectedly."
In the days before the flood, people lived without the slightest worry. There was a man named Noah who warned the people of the coming flood, but no one listened to him.
Not a drop of water had ever fallen from the sky. Why should they care? Then one day, they woke up like any other day. They went to their workplaces, school, and their various activities without suspecting that the time had come. And that day, the world disappeared, swept away by the waters.
They were only concerned with the cares of this life and forgot to prepare for the decisive day. Centuries later, the Lord Jesus appeared, inviting men and women to meditate deeply on their attitude towards life.
Take Action
Enjoy life, that is good and healthy! But do not let momentary joys keep you from thinking about the future. You may need to correct the course of your life. Look to Jesus for Him to show you how to do it. Sing "Take Heed to Yourselves" (if possible, with your family).