As I sat down to reflect on the month of November, I came to the conclusion that it is a month filled with preparations. At the end of the month, we will give thanks as we enjoy our annual Thanksgiving meal. Then, we will begin to prepare ourselves for the joyous celebration of Christmas and the start of a new year. The Church also spends this period getting ready. The readings for the final Sundays of the liturgical year teach us that the basic requirement for entering the kingdom of heaven when the Lord comes is readiness. Even if we have our tree trimmed, presents purchased, and a feast arranged on the table for our loved ones, does this truly matter if we are not spiritually ready for the coming of Christ?

Salvation is a gift that is given to us—there is nothing we can do to earn it. However, entry to the kingdom of heaven is not a given. Readiness is essential. As the liturgical year nears its end, the readings serve as an important reminder that while we wait for the arrival of the Lord, we need to live faithfully and actively take responsibility for the talents we have been given according to our abilities.

The message Jesus gives in the final Gospel for the year could not be clearer. At the final judgment, the Son of Man will examine our response to our brothers and sisters in need. We are called to serve those who are without, not to merit our salvation, but because we recognize Christ in them. As I reflect on this reading, I cannot help but think of you, and the many friends of Mercy Home. Because you generously share your time, treasures, talents, and prayers with the young people at Mercy Home, you make a tremendous difference in their lives.

“…while we wait for the arrival of the Lord, we need to live faithfully and actively take responsibility for the talents we have been given according to our abilities.”

“Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of the least brothers of mine, you did for me,” Jesus said in Matthew’s Gospel. I pray you remember to serve those in need, whether it is a neighbor or stranger. The Lord does no less in shepherding His people and expects no less of us. As you join your brothers and sisters in anticipating the joyous season ahead, remember also to spend this time of year evaluating your preparedness for the glory of Christ’s second coming.

From the entire Mercy Home family, we wish you a very happy Thanksgiving!