EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME JULY 31, 2022

MASS READINGS

A reading of the holy Gospel according to Lk 12:13-21

Someone in the crowd said to Jesus, “Teacher, tell my brother to share the inheritance with me.” He replied to him, “Friend, who appointed me as your judge and arbitrator?” Then he said to the crowd, “Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions.” Then he told them a parable. “There was a rich man whose land produced a bountiful harvest. He asked himself, ‘What shall I do, for I do not have space to store my harvest?’ And he said, ‘This is what I shall do: I shall tear down my barns and build larger ones. There I shall store all my grain and other goods and I shall say to myself, “Now as for you, you have so many good things stored up for many years, rest, eat, drink, be merry!”’ But God said to him, ‘You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you; and the things you have prepared, to whom will they belong?’ Thus will it be for all who store up treasure for themselves but are not rich in what matters to God.”

REFLECTION

"Rich in what matters to God."

In a few months PAPA will go to the Holy Land. So many things to pack. And, yes, enough room in the suitcases to bring back gifts and mementos of the Holy Land.

I have always kept my treasure of memories within reach. Whether it be in my brain or in pictures, clothing or foods, or stories and time spent with dear friends, I know where I can find them. I try to discard the bad memories and convert them to “funny, awkward or learning moments” in my life.

But am I ready for that final pilgrimage? This is one trip that I will hopefully be overpacking. I pray that I will have a treasure full of gifts, fruits and virtues to present to the Lord. Not only as small gifts to Him but my ticket to heaven. Everyday I ask the Holy Spirit for all He can and wants to give to me, my loved ones and dear friends.

So neatly will be packed my trunk:

The well used Gifts of the Holy Spirit:

Wisdom, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Understanding, Piety, and Fear of the Lord.

The many Fruits of the Holy Spirit:

Modesty, Patience, Peace, Chastity, Goodness, Gentleness, Faithfulness, Self control, Charity, Joy, Generosity and Kindness.

The Heavenly Virtues:

Faith, Hope, Charity, Fortitude, Justice, Temperance, Holiness, Love of God, Love for the poor, Humility, Obedience, Chastity, Poverty, Wisdom, Zeal, Courage, Truthfulness, Perseverance and Prudence.

Are you ready for your final voyage?

Are you rich in what matters to God?

God Bless You