BE CAREFUL HOW YOU LIVE

XX SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME: Eph 5:15-20

One of the things that I appreciate in Paul is that he is able to speak in plain, straightforward language. In a few words, he summarises what is fundamental for a Christian attitude and a Christian living.

In this Sunday second reading, Paul warns us: 

“Be careful how you live. 

Do not be unwise but wise, 

making the best use of your time 

because the times are evil. 

Therefore, do not be foolish, 

but understand what the Lord's will is.” 

(Eph 5:15-17 – in the translation International Standard Version)

Reckless living is very common nowadays. One is ready to try anything and everything, in a search for the greatest enjoyment. We make all kinds of experiments with our lives, in order to get power, influence and prestige. We suffer from a deep thirst of fame, glory and recognition, even if we have to do very unwise things to achieve it.

“Do not be foolish” – Paul tells us. We pay for our foolishness, here on earth, in this life of ours.

It is important to understand the Lord’s will, so that we act accordingly. Only that will bring peace and joy to our hearts.

The use and abuse of alcohol and drugs

In the same passage, Paul warns about the abuse of alcohol:

“Stop getting a drunk with wine, 

which leads to wild living, 

but keep on being filled with the Spirit.” (Eph 5:18)

Many lives are destroyed by the abuse of alcohol and by the use of all kinds of drugs. The relief and joy that they bring last but a few moments, living behind a “wild living”, in which the human dignity of the alcoholic and the drug addicts is trampled upon, transforming their lives and the lives of their close relatives into hell.

Let us be guided by the Holy Spirit, the spirit of wisdom, which brings joy and peace.