Daily Catholic Lectio
Sat, 28 Sep ‘24
XXV Week in Ordinary Time, Saturday
Ecclesiastes 11:9-12:8. Luke 9:43-45
Rejoice and Remember!
The readings invite us to embrace the joy of life while never forgetting the deeper realities of our existence – especially the inevitability of hardship, suffering, and ultimately, our accountability to God. Together, these readings remind us that while we rejoice in the present, we must remember the seriousness of our faith journey.
1. Rejoice in the gift of life
In the first reading, we hear the call to “Rejoice, O young man, in your youth.” The author encourages us to enjoy the good things in life, particularly in our youth, when strength and vitality are in abundance. This call to rejoice is an affirmation that life is a gift from God. It is not wrong to enjoy life; God has given us moments of happiness, beauty, and joy as part of our journey on this earth. We are meant to appreciate these blessings while they last.
It is important to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and joy for the life God has given us. Too often, we let worry or fear rob us of the beauty of the present moment. God wants us to rejoice in His gifts, while keeping a deeper perspective.
2. Remember the Creator, the days of trial, and suffering
Ecclesiastes balances the call to rejoice with the reminder to “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth … and remember the dark days that are round the corner.” While we celebrate the good in life, we must not forget that suffering and hardship are inevitable. The poetic description in Ecclesiastes 12 of the decline of the body with age reminds us that life is fragile and fleeting. Similarly, in Luke’s Gospel, while the crowd marvels at Jesus’ miracles, He tells His disciples, for the second time, about His coming passion and death. Though they did not understand, Jesus wanted them to remember that suffering would be a necessary part of His mission. Moreover, Jesus lived his life keep his ‘end’ in his mind.
Joy and suffering are both part of the Christian journey. While we rejoice in God’s blessings, we must also prepare for the trials that come, knowing they are a part of God’s plan. Jesus’ own path to the Cross teaches us to embrace both joy and suffering with faith.
3. Live with accountability and eternal perspective
The final message of Ecclesiastes is a reminder that we will all face judgment: “But know that for all these things, God will bring you into judgment.” While we are called to rejoice and celebrate the gift of life, we are also accountable for how we live. The refrain of “Vanity of vanities” underscores the temporary nature of earthly pursuits. We must remember that our ultimate purpose is not found in earthly joys alone but in living a life that honours God and prepares us for eternity.
As we enjoy the present moment, we must not forget the bigger picture. Our actions, choices, and how we live our faith will be called into account. True wisdom lies in rejoicing in God’s gifts while always remembering our eternal destiny and the call to live for Him.
In summary, “Rejoice and Remember” is the balance the readings present to us today. We are called to rejoice in the gift of life, fully appreciating the blessings God has given us. Yet, we must also remember that life is fleeting, trials are inevitable, and we will be accountable before God.
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The ‘pilgrims of hope’ navigate the joys and sorrow of life, always keeping their hearts and minds on God. (Jubilee 2025 AD, bite 211)
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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