Listen and act on His word

Readings for Tuesday September 23, 2008

Memorial of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, priets

First Reading:  Proverbs 2:1-6, 10-13

Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 119

Gospel:  Luke 8:19-21

In today's gospel we hear that Jesus' family is outside trying to get to Him, but are unable to because of the crowd.  When told that His family is outside, Jesus says that; "My mother and brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it."  So...to be in Jesus' circle all you have to do is hear the word of God and act on it.  Sounds pretty easy huh?  Well, as I am sure we all know, it is not that easy.  There are two parts to these instruction.  The first is that we have to be listening to even hear God's word in the first place. It is very easy in our lives to be caught falling asleep or not paying attention to when God is speaking to us.  It happens to all of us, this is why it is important to, as we say in football terms, "constantly keep your head on a swivel."  We should constantly be striving to make sure that we are looking for God in our lives and how He is speaking to us.  The reality is is that we will all fall asleep or lose focus, but that does not give us a reason to stay like that.  Remember, as St. Paul says, we press on towards our goal.    

The second part involves application.  What good is hearing His word if we are not going to act on it?  How many times in our lives are we given great ideas and we get so excited about them but we do not act on them?  The easier way is always to not act or walk away ... but we all know that there is no fruit in that.  We know the joy that comes from doing God's will or acting on , we simply need to pray for the courage to act more.  Acting on God's will is never easy, but the more we do it, the more we see the fruits of our obedience.  I pray that all of us will always strive to act on the Lord's will in our lives.  

Today in from the first reading we are given great jewels of wisdom from the book of proverbs.  As you read these, reflect on God's word and the traits and virtues that stick out to you.  Think about how you can strive for such virtues and what in your life you would like the Lord to help you with.  God is speaking to you, are you listening?  Are you ready to act?   

Let us always pray as in today's psalm, Guide me, Lord, in the ways of your commands!  

Father above, we thank you for this day.  Lord we offer this day up to you for your glory.  Lord help us to seek first your kingdom and always listen for when you are speaking.  Lord we pray for the courage and strength to act on your word.  We pray for all those who are struggling in their journey, and for all those who do not know you.  We ask this all in Christ our Lord.  Amen.