Reflection — 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time, August 23, 2020

By Sr Margaret Hickey, ND

Today’s first and last readings reflect on blessings and powers given to Eliakim and Peter.  Both readings reflect a power of office, very possibly, a recognition, a gift.

God is forever gracing our lives with blessings, powers, recognitions, gifts, happening daily in our lives, sometimes even without our asking.  We only need to notice God’s gifts, embrace them and thank for them.   Paul’s words in the second reading are among my favorites:  “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How inscrutable are God’s judgments and how unsearchable God’s ways….  From God and through God and for God are all things.  To God be glory forever.  Amen.”

Spend some time this weekend reflecting on the many gifts you have received from God in this past week, past month, or all of your life!  Thank God for each gift you realize—even the gift of a new day, even a special challenge.  Then pray with the psalmist:  “Your love is eternal, your kindness endures forever.”