Posted by The WORD in other words (2018) by Fr Abraham Borja SVD – Rome, Italy
Thursday 22nd Week in Ordinary Time
Liturgical prayers and readings lead us to a deeper reflection on God’s Word and presence in our lives. The Collect or Opening Prayer in the Mass this week says, “God of might, giver of every good gift, put into our hearts the love of your name, so that, by deepening our sense of reverence, you may nurture in us what is good and, by your watchful care, keep safe what you have nurtured.”
“Giver of every good gift, sense of reverence, nurture what is good, and keep safe what you nurtured” relate to the Gospel, particularly to Peter and his companions who were busy in their own trade and seemingly distant from Jesus who was teaching the crowd.
Good gift: Jesus approached Peter and promised him a good catch of fish, resulting in a world record in the fishing industry. More than the bountiful catch, the greater gift was Jesus himself who spent time with the fishermen.
Sense of reverence: Peter verbalized his respect for Jesus by addressing him “Master” on bended knees. This reverence enabled him to empty himself to Jesus and acknowledge his own sinfulness.
Nurture what is good: Catching fish and being with Jesus for a while was good; however, what is more meaningful is to be fishers of men and be with Jesus always.
Keep safe what you have nurtured: Feeling totally secure and realizing life’s significance in Jesus’ company, Peter and his companions gave up everything and followed Jesus.
In the light of the Collect and the Gospel, we may also ask ourselves: What gifts has the Lord given me? Have I shown reverence to the Giver? Have I asked the Lord to nurture the good he has given me and guard what he has nurtured in me?
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