July 30, 2017
17th Sunday Ordinary
Jordan Spieth, after winning the British Open in dramatic fashion, was asked about golf being the # 1 focus in his life. Surprisingly, Jordan said the most important thing for him is his faith, family & friends, girl friend and then golf. Remarkable how this golf champion, who has won three majors before his 24th birthday, sets his priorities. In the Gospel according to St. Matthew Jesus tells parables to encourage his disciples to set their sight on the Kingdom of Heaven that is coming into the world. The Kingdom is like finding treasure buried in a field or searching for a pearl of great price. Once found or discovered, one must risk and sacrifice to acquire that which is most valuable.
In the Our Father, we pray: “Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done!” We sing with the psalmist: “Let your compassion come to me that I may live, for your law is my delight.” Discovering the Kingdom is receiving and living the Word of God. St. Paul writes to the Romans: “We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” In our first reading from the Book of Kings, Solomon asks God not for riches or a long life or victory over his enemies but for an understanding heart to rule wisely. Not a bad request from a young king – “a mere youth.”
During the leisure of these summer days let us cast a net into the sea and then sort things out. We need to spend time to discern who/what is most precious and give our hearts without reserve.
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16th Sunday Ordinary
