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

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

“The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.” - Psalm 23

I am always struck by Jesus’ first words in the Gospel of John: He looks at the first disciples following Him and gets right to the heart of their desire, asking them, “What are you looking for?”

It is a profound question to launch his public ministry, because it is the most basic, fundamental question held in every person’s heart. No matter what we aspire to, seek to achieve, or desire on this earth, it is all a mere glimmer or reflection of the fundamental desire we all share for God.

A few weeks ago my family and I were walking around in a rather expensive outlet mall (not to shop, but for free air conditioning), and it struck me how every store window display looked like an altar with false idols or the pagan high places described in the Old Testament. We have not changed much over the past few thousand years, we are still turning to earthly pleasures instead of God for our satisfaction and gratification. Social media is an amplifier, causing us to think more about what we want, rather than what God wants for us. We look at the highlight reel of other people’s lives and think more about keeping up with others than being grateful for all the needs God has already provided for. 

So, what are you looking for?

Is it really going to fulfill you or make you happier than the Lord can?

What is the deeper desire behind what you want right now? 

Do you trust that the Lord can and will fulfill it, even if it is not in the way or in the time frame that you hoped?

Trust that the Lord is a shepherd who takes care of his sheep, never abandons them, and would even leave the ninety-nine in search of the one. He has already provided all that is good in your life, trust that He will continue to do so!

“We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” - Romans 8:28

I am praying for you, please pray for me, and I will see you in the Eucharist!

Matt

MANNA is a ministry creating blogs and podcasts to encourage and inspire others to grow in relationship with Jesus Christ and live out their Catholic faith.