The Church is fast approaching the end of this liturgical year, which will be next Sunday and the celebration of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. Thus, the readings seem to be pointing more toward the end times, particularly the Gospel passage. The readings remind us we do not know the day or the hour, that only the Father knows when and how this will take place. We may think we are seeing signs of these days fast approaching, yet all that Jesus reminds us to do is to be better prepared. The Alleluia verse today says, “Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to stand before the Son of Man.” Again, Jesus the High Priest, who has sacrificed Himself for the forgiveness of our sins and our salvation is being held out there before our eyes, so strive to stay connected to Him. For to be near God is our happiness and we place our hope in the Lord our God. Staying strong in our faith will keep this hope alive and the direction we desire to go will remain clear, the direction of Heaven and eternal life with our God.