24 September 2022

Rejoice, young man, while you are young, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth. Follow the inclination of your heart and the desire of your eyes, but know that for all these things God will bring you into judgement.

From Ecclesiastes 11:9 -12:8, NRSV

In today’s first reading, the writer gives a lengthy description of the difficulties of old age and encourages the enjoyment of youth and energy. His message seems to be along the lines of “Carpe Diem” – or “seize the day”. In youth, the business of making a living and the many demands on one’s time can sometimes limit a full appreciation of life, whilst in older age, physical frailty may prevent enjoyment of things that used to be enjoyable. Whatever our age, it can be easy to slip into habits or ways of thinking which prevent us living in the present moment and of making the most of what God gifts to us each day. The reading ends with some words we associate with Ash Wednesday when we are reminded that the dust of which we are made returns to the ground and our breath to the God who gave it. For some, this would mark an end of life, but we can take comfort from the thought that all our life is but a preparation for eternal life.

Today we celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Walsingham, remembering the deep devotion of our country to Mary during medieval times and the recent re-dedication of our country as “Mary’s dowry”.

• • Why does the writer want those who are young to remember the day of judgement?
  • Does anything prevent us from appreciating the good things God gives to us each day – how could we become more aware of these?

Carpe Diem – seize the day! At the end of the day, make a list of all that was life-giving and thank God for these gifts.

You may wish to pray this prayer from today’s Mass for the Feastday of Our Lady of Walsingham: Father, the incarnation of your Son was the root of our gracious redemption, your gift of saving love to all God’s people. Strengthened by the prayers of Our Lady of Walsingham, may we be together a joyful sign of Christ’s presence as we continue our pilgrim journey to you, for he is Lord for ever and ever.