Reflection for the Twenty-fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time…September 17, 2023

By Dot Connealy, ND Associate

Sirach 27:30-28:7; Psalm 103:1-4, 9-12; Romans 14:7-9; Matthew 18:21-35

                                              “Not 7 times, but 77 times…”

      When I first heard and tried to comprehend this statement, I don’t think I could even multiply 7×70 times (Forgive me: this is how I remember the quote 7×70 times). Wow! I thought, that is a big number!!  Well, I guess Jesus got the idea across to me even though my math skills were lacking at that time in my life.

     This brings to mind something that I meditate on with some regularity.  That is:  how the readings we hear at mass grow and change as I age.  There is always a truth in them, but at different stages of life they are enhanced with my own personal experiences.

     To me, this is part of what shows me the wisdom of God’s word.  How is it that with every new reading (or hearing) of a scripture reading I can “re”relate?  I can find a new kernel of truth that applies at this stage?  Another way that this scripture bolsters my faith?

      This is a mystery that I do not need to solve.  It is truly a “gift” and I shall go on looking forward to hearing “old” scripture read again and again and heard (by me) in some “new” way, because with it my faith grows and grows.

       Thank you, Jesus, for helping me to grow in your love and word.