32nd Friday in Ordinary Time, Yr 2 Feast of St. Albert the Great, November 15, 2024
2 Jn 4-9; Ps 119:1-2, 10-11, 17-18; Lk 17:26-37
We are asked once again to be on guard, watching for those who try and lead us astray. The last few months have been particularly troublesome as there were many who tried to mislead or pull us away from the teachings of Christ. The danger was real, and even though it has somewhat subsided, the danger is still there. Our readings today point to that real danger. From those who would deny Christ, the deceitful one known as the Antichrist, the impending floods that Noah was preparing for, and the illicit behavior in Sodom that Lot was warned about. Today is no different, we are warned that unless we keep our eyes vigilant and focused on Christ, we will be swept away in darkness.
St. Albert the Great, 1206-1280, whose Feast Day is today, was a scholar and theologian. He was a Dominican who taught in Paris, France and Cologne, Germany. He was the teacher of St. Thomas Aquinas, served in many higher positions, including bishop, and was sent to Rome to defend against heresies. After St. Thomas Aquinas’ death, he was once again sent to Rome to defend Thomas’ writings. His defense took its toll, and he died in Cologne in 1280.
St. Albert is a model for us to follow, He never took his eyes off Christ and kept watch for any of those who would mislead us. He is an example of how we too, should be aware, keep our eyes open and be vigilant for all the dangers around us. There certainly are many dangers out there, and I am sure we are seeing them, but are we sounding the horn? Or are we too busy consumed in our own affairs that we miss the signs and are led astray? As St. John says, “Look to yourselves that you do not lose what you have worked for but may receive a full recompense.”
Keep watch, be vigil and stay with the Lord through all things.
Saint James Catholic Church 