"Watch carefully how you live"

The first words of today’s second reading (Ephesians 5:15-20) could not be more obviously relevant for these days of economic and other upheavals.

Watch carefully how you live,
not as foolish persons but as wise,
making the most of the opportunity,
because the days are evil.

Prudence, prudence, prudence – this should be our daily motto in these challenging times.

In addition to prudence, we must also exercise discernment.

Do not continue in ignorance,
but try to understand what is the will of the Lord.

Finally, we should not be focused simply on today’s dangers or the rigors of prudence: we must also be attentive to a full spiritual life.

Be filled with the Spirit,
addressing one another
in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs,
singing and playing to the Lord in your hearts,
giving thanks always and for everything
in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father.