Finding the Reign of God in Our World

17th Sunday in Ordinary Time: July 30, 2023

Readings: 1 Kings 3:5, 7–12; Psalm 119:57, 72, 76–77, 127–130; Romans 8:28–30;  Matthew 13:44–52

(Photo courtesy: Jean-Marc Arkelian)

To listen to my audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/2S_RhRnzo_k

Everyone seeks success, but there are no shortcuts to achieve it. Failures are a natural part of our lives, and depending solely on success stories can lead to despair. However, failures can be the stepping stones to success. To be truly successful, one must learn from failures. Yet, when we rely solely on our own strength, we distance ourselves from God. To find real success, we should trust in our abilities with God's grace, even if we face failures along the way. The liturgical readings for this 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time emphasize the importance of trusting in God alone, even when we may think our strength is enough. The stories of King Solomon and Jesus' teachings on the Kingdom of God reveal profound truths about life and guide us in making the right decisions with God's help.

1. Seeking wisdom over material wealth

Let's start with the story of King Solomon, the successor of David in 1 Kings 3:5, 7–12. One of the beautiful gifts that God can give to us is His presence in our lives which could be called "encounter." In his encounter with God, King Solomon seeks only wisdom to govern his country than material wealth. Wisdom is a gift from God.  Solomon didn't acquire wisdom through his own efforts or learning; it was divinely bestowed upon him. He worshipped God above all else with great desire. God came first in his life. God was his priority. In his encounter with God, Solomon asks humbly wisdom than riches, fame or power.  In a world often driven by materialism and self-pity this serves as a reminder to focus on eternal values and spiritual growth. Wisdom isn't just about knowledge; it's about discerning God's will and applying it in our lives and relationships.

Solomon's attitude of humility pleases God. In his inadequacy and youthfulness, Solomon pleases God. God watches every act of ours. This humility in leadership is a valuable lesson for all leaders. Arrogance and pride can lead to disastrous consequences, but acknowledging our limitations and seeking divine guidance can lead to better decision-making and compassionate leadership. God is generous and He wills what we desire. That is why, we see Solomon blessed with wealth, honour, and a long life as long as he remains faithful. This illustrates God's willingness to reward those who seek Him with sincere hearts. When we seek God's wisdom and align our desires with His will, He blesses us in ways we might not even anticipate. Only then we can be called discerning people. 

2. God's Love: Our Unbreakable Journey.

St Paul writing to Romans 8:28–30 gives a powerful and yet comforting message on the profound truths of God's sovereignty, His redemptive plan, and His unconditional love for His people. God called us to be his sons and daughters because of his love for us. St Paul writes, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). This verse reassures us that God is in control of all circumstances, even the challenging and painful ones. He has the ability to bring good out of any situation, no matter how difficult it may seem. As believers, we can find comfort and hope in the knowledge that God is at work, orchestrating our lives according to His redemptive plan.

God's plan is not random or arbitrary or without purpose; it is deeply rooted in His love for us. We are "called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28b), which means that God has a specific and intentional plan for each of His children. This highlights the personal relationship God desires to have with us and how He leads us toward His perfect purpose. Therefore, God's sovereign plan and His desire for us is to grow into Christ-likeness through the work of the Holy Spirit. Through our faith in Christ Jesus, we will be fully transformed and made like Christ in eternity. What God begins, He completes. God's work in our lives is not dependent on our abilities or merits, but on His unmerited grace and love. 

3. Discovering the Kingdom: Parables of Wisdom and Revelation

In the Gospel of Matthew 13:44–52, Jesus invites us to ponder what it means to live in God’s reign now and in the time to come. Jesus gives us a number of parables about the Kingdom of God with common images and experiences of life in first-century Palestine to reveal something deeper. While giving the Treasure and the Pearl parable (Matthew 13:44-46), Jesus illustrates the incomparable value of the kingdom of heaven. Just as a man joyfully sells all he has to possess a hidden treasure or a merchant seeks and finds a priceless pearl, we should recognize the unparalleled worth of God's kingdom. They emphasize the accountability we have for our actions and choices. As believers, we are called to live righteous and obedient lives, knowing that a day of reckoning awaits. It serves as a reminder to cultivate a genuine and personal relationship with Christ and to continually examine our hearts and deeds.

The parables tell us that we are to draw wisdom from both the Old and New Testaments, recognizing the continuity and fulfillment of God's plan throughout Scripture. Studying and meditating on God's Word helps us to grow in wisdom and equips us to share the gospel effectively with others. As people of the Scriptures, the Word of God, we are encouraged to be discerning and wise, equipped to handle the truths of the gospel with accuracy and humility. God is actively involved in the world. We are to respond to His call. Thus we embrace the truth of His Word. 

In other words, it is a call to recognize the incomparable value of God's kingdom, be accountable for our actions, seek wisdom through God's Word, and diligently understand and share the gospel with others. It calls us to prioritize our spiritual inheritance over worldly pursuits, acknowledging that knowing and following Christ is the greatest gain we can ever attain. Let us rest in His love, trust His plan, and seek to live in obedience to His calling. As we reflect on this passage, let us strive to seek God's wisdom, trust in His faithfulness, and humbly lead with discernment and justice in our own lives and communities.

Questions for reflections

1. What do I prioritize as the most valuable in my life? Do I recognize the immeasurable worth of God's kingdom and willingly let go of worldly pursuits to follow Christ wholeheartedly?
2. Am I actively seeking and responding to God's invitation? How can I be more attentive to God's leading and respond with faith and surrender to His call in my life?
3. What steps can I take to prioritize God's Reign in my daily life? How can I actively seek God's wisdom and align my choices and priorities with His will?

Prayer based on Psalm 119 

Gracious and loving Father, in Your presence, I find my true delight. Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path, guiding me through the uncertainties of life. Your righteous laws have become my treasure and source of wisdom. Lord, I pray that You would be my portion and my refuge. When I stumble and falter, Your unfailing love sustains me, and Your comfort brings me joy. I humbly seek Your guidance, O Lord, to keep me on the path of righteousness. May I be a living testament to Your love and faithfulness, reflecting Your light to a world in need.

Keep me, O Lord, from turning away from Your commands, for Your law is my delight. Help me to meditate on Your Word day and night, that I may walk in Your ways and experience the richness of Your truth. May I never forget the power of Your Word, for it revives my soul and brings light to my understanding.  Lord, as I reflect on Your Word, grant me understanding and discernment. Open my eyes to see the wonders of Your truth and the beauty of Your ways. May Your Word take root in my heart, shaping my thoughts, desires, and actions.  In Jesus' Holy Name, I pray. Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

July 28, 2023