Reflection by Deacon Matt

Reflection for 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time: 

Sirach 27:4-7: In this very brief passage, Ben Sira uses images to convey how a person’s speech will reveal truths about the speaker’s character over time. An important point here is that we must really listen to the speaker and not prejudge her or him. We might also take some time to consider the people and situation toward which the speaker is addressing. As in some of Jesus’ discourses with the scribes and Pharisees, what may sound like angry scolding or criticism is actually an expression of concern for their salvation and concern, as well, for the souls whom they were leading astray. Words spoken out  of love and concern may seem harsh on the surface, but reflection and an attitude of openness, will enable one to receive “uncomfortable truths” more peacefully and with holy resignation to the Will of God.

Psalm 92: “Lord, it is good to give thanks to You.” As we consider further how much someone’s speech reveals truths about his/her character, we might contemplate this week, as to whether we verbally express our faith and belief in God enough. Do others have any clue that we have faith and believe? Is our faith and the tenets of our Church reflected in our actions and in the way we treat others? Do we give God the glory for our fruitful accomplishments in life, or do we think that we did it on our own? Are we appropriately thankful to God, as this psalm emulated for us? If not, then we need to verbally express our faith in, belief un, and gratitude to God, more. We must share “The Light” of our faith more readily, in order to fulfill our baptismal calling to bring other souls into God’s Kingdom. Let’s share “The Light” that we’ve received!

1 Cor 15:54-58: St. Paul alludes to our struggles and challenges throughout life, as we strive to live out our faith lives, with inspiring integrity. We struggle throughout our earthly lives with the forces of sin and death. Sometimes, when we want to speak out and share our faith,  to comfort and inspire others, we hear a soft and gentle, meek voice, suggesting: “you don’t want to be a “goody-two shoes,” do you? You don’t want her or him to think that you’re “playing” religious, do you?” You will hear that voice, if you begin to speak out for your faith, but do recognize from whom that voice is coming. It’s NOT the Lord. You’ll also hear some version of another Voice, saying: “Go ahead. Tell them about my Love and what our relationship has meant for you, in your life.” This voice, too will be soft and gentle, but will be girded with strength and serene confidence… the Voice of True Love! 

Luke 6:39-45: Jesus validates the importance of both watching teachers and listening to their message. Hearing a teacher’s message, it’s only prudent to watch and assess whether the teacher’s actions harmonize with their professed beliefs and priorities. If professed beliefs and actions are consistent, trust in the authenticity of the teacher or preacher intensifies.
Our Lord’s actions align perfectly with His professed message and mission; earning our perfect trust and yielding story after story of growing love and faithfulness! Jesus’ miracles of bodily and spiritual healings exemplify an unimaginable abundance of holy fruitfulness. Amazing stories of spiritual conversions and transformations are no less miraculous than the physical healings and miracles of multiplications of loaves and fishes, calming of storms and changing water into wine. 

Listen and watch!  
Deacon Matt