Psalm Reflection: Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Cycle B)

“The Lord has done great things for us, we are filled with joy.” - Psalm 126

Does that describe you? Are we people that recognize how much God had done and continues to do in our lives? Are we more joyful because of it? For me, the older I get the more I catch myself with a resting scowl face. Every time I notice it my heart sinks slightly, because I want the joy that I feel from my relationship with God to be something that can bless others. I don’t want them to see it for my own sake, but so they will want it for themselves. More people can be evangelized without even knowing us or speaking to us if we live our lives with true joy. They will simply see us and want to know what it is that we have and, as Scripture says, “the reason for our hope” (1 Peter 3:15). We are so quick to seek recognition for our own accomplishments and life events, and yet when it comes to our faith it is sometimes as if we want no one to notice. We want to mind our business, not shove religion down anyone’s throat, and simply keep to our spiritual selves. But this is not the mission of a Christian. We are not called to shove, but we ARE called to share. So this week, I challenge you to do two things: 1. SMILE more. Whether it is while driving in your car, waiting in line, sitting in class or walking your dog: smile. You never know what a kind look or a joyful glance can do for someone who is searching or having a hard day. 2. Tell someone about Jesus or about the Church you go to and invite them to experience it. This will be hard, but if you ask God for the opportunity to share it, He will give you many. Let us live in joy, because the Lord has done great things for us! We are praying for you this week!

See you in the Eucharist.