Home > 2007 > July

Reflection for Sunday 08/05/07

READINGS
First Reading: Ecclesiastes 1:3; 2:21-23
Second Reading: Colossians 3:1-5, 9-11
Gospel: Luke 12:13-21

REFLECTION:
Success is a highly valued accomplishment in our society. We love the story about the hard working person who climbs from dire poverty to wealth and prestige. Those stories my even inspire us to set our goals higher or to renew our focus on what is important to us. And that seems to be the question Jesus is posing to us in this “Parable of the Rich Fool.” Do we want to be rich in worldly goods or “rich in what matters to God?” We know the “correct” answer is “rich in what matters to God” but would others recognize that answer in the choices we make? Would they instead see someone greedy for more money, more stuff, more security? Would they see someone dissatisfied, ungrateful for what we do have? We certainly are responsible for providing for ourselves and for our family but it’s all too easy to become captivated by the consumer-driven greed so common in our society. This parable suggests that it may be time for us to consider how closely our priorities align with “what matters to God.”

1. When have you felt that possessions were becoming too important in your life?
2. Have you ever received a gift you wanted a lot and then found it didn’t make you as happy as you thought it would?

PRAYER:
Dear Lord, help me become less attached to the goods of this world and more firmly rooted in your grace. Help me to trust in you now and always. Amen.

Mass Readings Online