Psalm Reflection: The Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Cycle B)

“Give thanks to the Lord, his love is everlasting.” - Psalm 107

What do these things have in common?: 

Your relationships,

Your family,

Your achievements,

Your abilities,

Your health,

Your appearance?

All of these things will eventually change, fade and end. All of them are temporary. The only eternal constant in life that we can trust in or rely on is the Lord and His love for us.

Why then are we so quick to run to this list first before we go to the Lord? Why do we throw away the gift of God’s love and chase after temporary fulfillment or happiness?

Is it because we know God will always be there, but our insecurity about losing the other earthly things in our life makes us cling to them harder? 

Or is it because we don’t really know the beauty and value of God’s love for us?

Do you know the gravity of God’s love for you?

Do you acknowledge it on a daily basis by having an attitude of gratitude?

Do you complain more than you praise?

Do you seek credit, affirmation or attention, instead of giving God the glory first and foremost.

Remember, the only thing we can claim ownership of is our sin. Everything else in our life is a gift, a blessing from God out of his abundant love for us (John 10:10). And since the consequence of all sin is death (Romans 6:23), we are doomed to Hell without the mercy, love and salvation Jesus Christ. If we truly recognized and understood that, then we would never stop thanking and praising God for the gifts of salvation, the Church and the Sacraments.

Is thanking God a regular and consistent part of your daily prayer life? 

If so, try to be even more specific in your prayer this week about the moments you want to thank God for and how they impacted you. Challenge yourself to share those things with others this week, always keeping in mind to give God the glory.

If this is not a regular part of your prayer life, make a concerted effort this week in your daily prayer to genuinely thank God for specific things and blessings in your life.

A spirit of thankfulness is the key to a fulfilled, joyful and vibrant life. I am thankful for you, and praying for you this week. Please pray for me, and I will see you in the Eucharist.

Matt