I will praise your name forever, Lord.— Psalm 145:1

Mass Readings: Romans 16:3-9,16,22-27 / Luke 16:9-15 

In Our Hearts 

Our hearts contain the secrets of our souls. In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells the Pharisees, “You justify yourselves in the sight of others, but God knows your hearts.” All too often we spend time and energy trying to win the praise of others, as if, like the Pharisees, our outward appearance is most important. Jesus goes on to say, “for what is of human esteem is an abomination in the sight of God.” 

In our humanness, it’s sometimes confusing to understand and do what we should in this life. Temptations surround us. Yet, one thing is certain: If we diligently seek to share Jesus’ love with others, we’ll more easily feel what we yearn for most in our own lives — His love and closeness. In doing so, the rest falls into place. 

Prayer: Holy Spirit, fill my heart with love.