Readings for Sunday, November 16 — 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31; Psalm 128: 1-2, 3, 4-5; 1 Thessalonians 5: 1-6; Matthew 25: 14-30

Suggested Reflection Questions:

• In the first reading, we hear a passage that is often read at weddings. However, this description of a worthy wife can have meaning in our lives always. Do you know someone who fits this description? She does not have to be a wife. What are some of her qualities that make her fit this reading? If you were to rewrite this passage from Proverbs and make it about a worthy husband, what are some verses you might write?

• The second reading tells us about waiting for the day of the Lord, which will come by surprise. The reading encourages us to be alert, sober. What does it mean to be alert for the coming of the day of the Lord? If that day were to come in our lifetime, how would you want the Lord to find you? Where would you be? What would you be doing with your life? What type of person would you be? Take those images and meditate on how you can be working toward that vision in your present life.

• In the Gospel reading, we hear the familiar story of the master entrusting talents to his servants. The servant who was given one goes and buries it out of fear. Have you ever “buried” something God gave you out of fear? Are you doing that in your life today? How does God call us to live out our talents boldly? What are the risks involved? How can we confide in God to help us to live out our talents more fully?