When Christ returns, will the world even care?

as Lord and Savior.

Consider Christmas. One homilist observed that even Catholic children are more keen for Santa Claus coming than the Christ Child. The priest added kids are often influenced by adults more mindful of holiday bonuses and shopping than preparing for and welcoming our Savior’s birth.

What to do and where do we start in leading our brethren from the godless path, unmindful of eternity, to the godly road to heaven. The second Mass reading from St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans (Rom 15:4-9) offers directions.

First, constantly read and reflect on the Bible: “Whatever was written previously was written for our instruction, that by endurance and by the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.”

Second, seek unity and collaboration with fellow faithful in mission: “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to think in harmony with one another, in keeping with Christ Jesus, that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Third and most important, speak and do not silence God’s call to faith within which you heeded and must share: “Welcome one another, then, as Christ welcomed you, for the glory of God. For I say that Christ became a minister of the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, to confirm the promises to the patriarchs, but so that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy.”

And the first place to speak is one’s home, where faith, hope and charity must begin. Let us speak by bringing the Word of God and the teachings of His Church to our children, leading them in daily prayer and worship, and most of all, showing the love and holiness of God in our everyday life.

Then, to paraphrase the Responsorial Psalm (Ps 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17), justice shall flourish in our homes, and fullness of peace forever. Amen.