GOD KNOWS OUR HEARTS - 11/05/22 (Saturday of the Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time)

Luke 16:14-15

The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all these things and sneered at him. And Jesus said to them, “You justify yourselves in the sight of others, but God knows your hearts; for what is of human esteem is an abomination in the sight of God.”  

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/110522.cfm

Blessed Saturday! After hearing the words of Jesus Christ, instead of repenting, the Pharisees were angry at our Lord. They were so attached with money and with their sinful lifestyle that they still chose it over the commandments of God. Despite the fact that they seemed to be holy and good in front of many people, Jesus told them that God knew their hearts. This is important for us to remember because sometimes, if not most of the time, we receive the temptations of hiding our sins or committing our sins where no one is watching. When we are angry with someone, we may want to appear that we are nice with them, and yet, deep down, we have hatred over them. Our Lord is telling us to always be reminded of the presence of God because by doing so, we can begin to do better in our spiritual and moral life. 

We cannot be faithful in big matters if we are not faithful in small matters. How can we love God with all of our being and strength if we always entertain the temptations that justify our sins, no matter how small or big they are? May we remember the presence of God, not just during our prayers, but even outside of our prayers. Jesus desired the conversion of the Pharisees. This was the reason why our Lord was explaining to them, through parables, how important it was to follow God and abandon their sinful ways. Our Lord also reveals to us through many ways, whether it's through reflection on God's Word, examination of conscience, sudden remembrance of our sins, the disturbance of our souls and many more, our faults because God loves us, and He wants us to be more united to Him. What matters most to God is not our riches, intelligence nor achievements. What matters to Him the most is that we love Him, and we are faithful to His commandments and will for us. When we are tempted to commit a sin, let's immediately reject it and turn to God in our prayer. May the remembrance of the presence of God kindle the love in our hearts for Him. 

Amen +

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

 

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Summary and Defense of Catholic Teachings:

https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/