Today we are given one of those rare “responsorials” to God’s word – not a psalm, but a Canticle. Hearing the canticle gives us a chance to delve more into the praise from the prophet Daniel.

Daniel helps Nebuchadnezzar see the future and God‘s plan. Daniel stresses that God‘s plan, not his, keeps us open to see what God has in store for us. We may not have a Daniel nearby, but hopefully, we listen to God and the gentle prodding, whereby we are coaxed into living our Eucharistic vocation and ensuring that we stay close to God’s plan for us. This attitude gives glory and praise to our God!

In today’s gospel, Jesus points to the signs of the times. It’s what Pope Francis renewed over the past few years, returning the Church to the essence of the synodal process: listening, learning, and looking to see what is happening around us and what it means for the Body of Christ.

At the end of October, our Church completed one part of a two-year synod. This vehicle of communication will help our Church look to its future. No doubt, there is so much to process, just like there’s so much to process in our own lives as we build our faith in God.

But no matter what, we are confident that the Holy Spirit will lead us forward. That vision guides us daily to awaken and say, “Glory and praise to God.” Our good and holy founder trusted that each day of his life was a way to Eucharistic living – for thy Eucharistic kingdom come. How does the Eucharist encourage our vision and see God’s glory.

Prayer

Gracious God, you call us into a deeper relationship with you, dreaming of our reunion in heaven. Help us always to fix our hearts on our eternal reward to gaze on the prize you claim for us and bring your vision to birth while we wait for you in glory through Christ our Lord.