Ordinary time: a new start
With the arrival of ordinary time, which began after the Sunday of the Baptism of Jesus, we are in a period that, despite being one of the longest of the liturgical year, often goes unnoticed. This time extends until Tuesday before Ash Wednesday and resumes on Monday after Pentecost, marking a cycle that ends with the solemnity of Christ the King.
Reflections on their importance
According to José Damián Gaitán, ordinary time is a period that has not yet reached its fullness. Although the Second Vatican Council did not specifically address this time, the universal norms on the liturgical year describe it as an essential stage for the experience of the Christian mystery. Its name as ‘by Annum’ comes from Dom Prosper Guéranger, a pioneer in liturgical reform.
An overture to l’Acatologia
Ordinary time presents an eschatological perspective, reminding us that we look forward to the return of the Lord, as mentioned in John’s Gospel. Every Sunday of this period invites us to reflect on the fullness of the Christian mystery, emphasizing Easter as the central nucleus that is introduced in each Sunday celebration.
The value of everyday life
Unlike other liturgical times considered more intense, ordinary time offers us an opportunity to deepen the daily experience of faith. Without him, the celebrations of the Mystery of Christ could be reduced to isolated episodes, lacking the context that allows to integrate faith into everyday life. Jean Corbon reminds us that during this time we transform ourselves through the spirit, assimilating the Paschal mystery in our lives.
The silent presence of God
Ordinary time is not a stagnation period. In fact, it is a time when the presence of God manifests itself subtle, such as the growth of a grain of wheat that blooms without the farmer knowing. Just as the parables of Jesus teach us, spiritual life develops in silence and everyday life, inviting us to recognize the work of God at every moment of our daily lives.
An interior transformation time
As we move on in ordinary time, it is essential to remember that every week the opportunity to connect with the life of Jesus Christ, and to let his message transform us. This period encourages us to integrate faith with our reality, to live with intentionality and to cultivate a deeper relationship with God.