Vigilant always

WE need to be vigilant always, in good times and in bad times, and most especially in ordinary times which we still would not know whether it is good or bad. We should never let our guard down.

This is simply because we have enemies to contend with all the times. First of all, it is our own selves, our own weakened flesh that will always lure us to do things against God’s will and against what is truly good for us.

Then we have the world with all its sinful attractions and temptations. And, of course, the devil himself. Never discount him. He’s always around, prowling like a lion looking for someone to devour. (cfr 1 Pt 5,8)

In what may seem to be good times, when things are more or less ok, let us thank God and do our best to make use of all the blessings and good opportunities made available for us.

But let’s not forget that the good things can also occasion dangers for us if we are not careful. We should know where those dangers lie in the good things that we may enjoy at the moment. In that way, we avoid falling into complacency that will practically spoil us, and take away the goodness of the blessings we are enjoying.

And in what may seem to be bad times, let us never forget to look for the one good thing in those situations. There will always be one or two or even more good things on these occasions and turn them into the vehicles for redemption.

This can happen if we turn to God in the first place. He will always forgive us and know what to do with whatever mess we are making or we may be in. In that way, we avoid falling into sadness and bitterness, and can remain calm and hopeful in spite of the suffering and pain we may be undergoing at the moment.

Of course, in the ordinary days when we have the usual run of things, being vigilant is a matter of keeping our love for God and others burn more and more. Without this impulse, we will surely spend those days badly. This will always involve demanding on ourselves more and more.

We can always find new reasons to fan the flame of our love all throughout the day. The love of God for us shown in sending his son to save us, our personal needs and the needs of the others, the pursuit of the common good of our society, etc. are just a few samples of the reasons that can drive us to a loving that is proper to us.

We just have to be vigilant always. That is why the Bible is full of reminders about this need. “Be watchful,” St. Paul says, for example, “stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Cor 16,13) St. Paul practically has given us a good program of how it is to be watchful always.

We are familiar with Christ’s admonitions. “You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect,” he said. (Mt 24,44) In another instance, he said, “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Mt 26,41)

Let’s learn the appropriate skills and art of being watchful both in good times and bad times and also in ordinary times when things appear to be neutral yet. Let’s sharpen our skill in examining our conscience, in reading the signs of the times, in assessing the different circumstances of the day, etc.