Western Diocese

The spiritual readings of the day are most challenging for all of us.

-          Jesus authority (Mark 11:27-33)

-          The parable of the two sons (Matthew 21:28-32)

-          The parable of the evil farmers (Mark 12:1-12)

-          The parable of the wedding feast (Matthew 22:1-14)

-          About paying taxes (Mark 12:13-17)

-          About the resurrection (Mark 12:18-27)

-          The greatest commandment (Mark 12:28-34)

-          Are you the Messiah (Mark 12: 35-37)

-          Warns against the religious leaders (Matthew 23)

-          A poor widow gives all she has (Mark 12:41-44)

-          About the future (Mark 13)

Parables about the Last Judgment

a.      Remaining watchful (Matthew 24:45-51)

b.      The parable of the Ten Bridesmaids (Matthew 25:1-13)

c.       The parable of the loaned money (Matthew 25:14-30)

d.      The final judgment (Matthew 25:31-46)

Each of the above readings conveys to us a special message. As we read them one by one, we then conclude that those who hesitate to enlighten their souls with the love of God will resemble those foolish maidens. Christ reminds us to follow the example of the wise maidens who were eager to listen to the word of God who were always anxiously waiting for the Second Coming of the Lord.

Archbishop Hovnan Derderian

Primate

March 30, 2010