I will rejoice in your salvation, O Lord. — Psalm 9:(see 16) 

Mass Readings: 1 Maccabees 6:1-13 / Luke 20:27-40 (502) 

Gold and Silver 

The story of King Antiochus of Babylon (modern-day Iraq) is told in today’s first reading. Many died at his orders as he led his armies into Persia and Judah (modern-day Iran and Israel) seeking gold and silver. However, this didn’t bring Antiochus happiness. Overcome with fear, sorrow and grief, he spent the rest of his days bedridden. 

I suspect that my own “gold and silver” are whatever gets between me and my Lord. Or perhaps, more accurately, whatever foolish things (items or sins) that I choose to place between us. Power, fame and fortune — no matter the level or scale — still glitter like gold or shine like silver. None is, in itself, sinful. Rather, like Paul tells in 1 Timothy 6:10, it’s the love of money that causes the problem. 

Prayer: Forgive me Lord, for placing anything above my love for You.