Semper Paratus — Latin for “always ready”

“Gird your loins and light your lamps and be like servants who await their master’s return from a wedding, ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival.” (Gospel for Aug. 11, Lk 12:35-37) Semper Paratus — Latin for “always ready” — is the motto of the U.S. Coast Guard, but it also could serve as a motto for you and me in the Christian life. In this Gospel passage, Jesus calls us to constant vigilance. My brothers, whether it’s day or night, we cannot allow our perimeter to be breached by any of the powerful temptations to anger, possessions, lust or other sins. Tomorrow is not guaranteed to any of us. You and I can recall someone whose sudden death reminds us that we do not know when we will be called to account. May our master find us vigilant on his arrival!

Challenge by Supreme Chaplain Archbishop William E. Lori:

This month, I challenge you to exercise daily vigilance through the time-tested practice of a simple examination of conscience at the end of each day before going to bed. I also challenge you to watch with vigilance with your council through the Faith in Action Holy Hour program, or by spending some time in eucharistic adoration on your own.

Questions for Reflection:  

Is looking at your phone the first and the last thing you do each day? In this age of distraction, are there ways you can sharpen your vigilance and focus to better pay attention to what is truly important? Did examining your conscience daily help increase your vigilance in your life?

About the Monthly Challenge

Every month, Archbishop Lori is calling on all Knights of Columbus to live out a specific, related spiritual challenge drawn from the Gospel of an upcoming Sunday liturgy. Each challenge pushes us to put our faith into action, in unity with brother Knights around the globe. At the end of the month, take a moment to reflect on its impact — how has the challenge affected your daily routine? Is it something you want to adopt as a family?