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

“I sought the LORD, and he answered me, delivered me from all my fears.” - Psalm 34:5

I have always found it interesting to look at Jesus’ first words to the Apostles in each Gospel. In Matthew & Mark he says, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men,” while in Luke he tells Peter, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.” Nothing too surprising; they are all statements about fishing to fisherman. However, in the Gospel of John the very first words Jesus speaks in the whole Gospel are to Andrew and another disciple, and he says, “What are you looking for?” This is such a powerful question for me because it reminds me of two things. First, that I constantly come to Jesus for the wrong things. I tell Jesus what I want Him to do and who I want Him to be in my life; I don’t let Him reveal to me who He wants me to be in my life. I look for my comfortable version of Jesus. Secondly, this question reminds me of how often I feel like I need to seek out other things or people for my own happiness or edification, rather than allowing Jesus to hold that place in my heart. I look for things that are easier and more comfortable for me to seek out, rather than dealing with the difficulties of discipleship that come with seeking Jesus above everything else. What are you looking for? Are you putting Jesus in a you-shaped box, or are you letting Jesus be who He needs and wants to be in your life? My friend Laura taught me a beautiful prayer this week that goes like this: “Hi Jesus, it’s (your name). I’m here and I love you.” I encourage you to pray this prayer before the tabernacle or in Adoration this week, and allow that prayer to begin a time of prayer, reflection and listening to who Jesus is trying to reveal Himself to be in your life. We are praying for you.

See you in the Eucharist!