A STITCH IN TIME SAVES NINE

A STITCH IN TIME SAVES NINE

A Gospel Reflection on the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time - September 20, 2026

In today's fast-paced world, timely action has profound consequences. The wisdom behind "A stitch in time saves nine" reminds us that early effort can prevent greater troubles later. By addressing challenges early, we save time and resources and help shape our future. Let us explore this timeless principle and see how one thoughtful action today can inspire resilience and success.

The phrase "a stitch in time saves nine" is timeless and simple. It means: do not delay! It affirms that prevention is less work than fixing it later. It challenges us to take on tasks as they arrive instead of procrastinating. Prophet Isaiah asks us to seek God while He is near (Is. 55:6-9). It reminds us that our relationship with God has no breaks; the earlier we align ourselves with divine plans, the better for us. There is a natural inclination for all human beings to be united with God. If we make God our friend and build a solid divine relationship, we will not be desperate in times of spiritual or temporal needs.

One great way to withstand challenges is to build a sustained character over the years. For this reason, people discipline themselves through constant and enduring practices to prepare for difficult situations. For example, an athlete undergoes rigorous physical training to prepare for a competitive event. Similarly, wearing a new pair of shoes a few times before a celebrated event is wise. Otherwise, it might cause discomfort on stage.

It is sad that some Christians do not seek the Lord with a sound and settled spirit. Some people lack a spiritual foundation, so you can tell when they are facing challenges in their lives. For example, people who scarcely attend Sunday Mass suddenly visit the adoration chapel and stay after Mass for private prayer and meditation. It is evident that they desperately need God's intervention. The biggest concern in such a situation is that desperation hinders concentration and consequently affects the desired divine communion. When you seek the Lord only in crisis, He seems far away because your voice is unfamiliar.

It is like friends and family members with whom we have had little communication. A family member or a friend who has not called for many months or replied to your greeting texts suddenly starts bombarding you with multiple calls and texts. Sometimes, it might be a call for financial help or other requests for assistance. There is tension whenever there is a rare conversation with them. And after the incident, we go back to being incommunicado.

Seeking God while He is near entails constant devotion to God and readiness to do His will, such as regular attendance at Mass, Confession, prayers, the Rosary, reading the Bible, religious societies, charity, voluntary groups. Ceaseless dedication is essential to do God's will. When seriously pursuing what God has told us to do, we will not have time for wrong attitudes and thinking. Consequently, we must be engrossed, totally absorbed, and fully engaged to remain devoted and avoid the last-minute rush. A stitch in time saves nine!

Life is a journey of seeking God each day. Every day, we encounter moments that call us to rise above our limitations, seek purpose, and embrace the grace God continually offers. Let us approach each day with intention and openness, trusting that no effort to draw closer to God is ever wasted. As we reflect on today's readings, may our hearts be moved to act now, seek wisdom, and let God's presence transform us from within.

Loving Father, grant us the wisdom to seek You every day, not just in moments of need but in times of plenty and peace. Help us to build a deep and lasting relationship with You, so that Your presence may guide all our actions. Strengthen our hearts to respond promptly to Your call and fill us with the grace to live faithfully, trusting in Your boundless mercy. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

by Father John Offor