Reflection from the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B by Sis. Nicole Gonzales Hidalgo, OP Lay

What does it mean for the peace, mercy, and love of the Lord to guard our hearts and minds? As we reflect on this promise, we might feel its weight even more profoundly given the trials we face today. In the Bicol Region, October 2024 saw Typhoon Kristine flood our lands, and now, Typhoon Pepito looms, threatening to bring yet more destruction. Many of us have asked, “Where is God in all this? Why does He allow such things to happen to those who believe in Him?”

Our Gospel today offers an answer, with Jesus saying:

“Learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see these things happening, know that he is near, at the gates. Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.”
 
“But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”

Here, Jesus speaks to us about enduring faith and hope, even when we don’t understand what the future holds. In our world, where suffering and sorrow coexist with faith and joy, we might find ourselves longing for answers from God, pressing Him to reveal why difficulties persist. Yet, in the Word of God, we’re reminded to “be not afraid.” We are challenged to trust that while good and evil coexist, God’s hand guides all things. In His timing, He will bring forth understanding, and His purposes will unfold.

Rather than demanding clarity on the why’s of suffering, Christ calls us to humble patience, to seek grace amid the confusion, and to practice tolerance in the face of hardship. There are “weeds” in our lives, no doubt, but these do not obscure the precious harvest—the faith and hope—that God cultivates in each of us.

Ultimately, we can rest in the assurance that our Master walks beside us, guiding us from behind, within, and before us. His mercy, peace, and love surround us, no matter how dark the days may seem or how far we might stray. Let us hold fast to this truth, trusting that He is near, and that His words will never pass away.