Colorful-Scripture-8-04-16

Photo illustration by Phil Younk
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God’s greatest gift awaits us

Based on Wis 18:6-9; Heb 11:1-2, 8-12; Lk 12:32-48

Have you looked around and really noticed the things making you happy this summer?

Consider: warm, sunny days, shady trees, beautiful flowers, fluttering butterflies, chirping birds, flickering fireflies, playful pets, inviting lakes and, best of all, family and friends.

These are all God’s gifts to us to show that our happiness is important to him. But, do you know God has the best treasure of all still waiting for us?

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus uses short parables to tell of his coming at the end of time – though the exact time is not known. He reminds his followers to be ever watchful.

Jesus came to bring God’s love into the world by teaching and healing. He chose 12 apostles to begin his church. They left all they had to follow him. They listened to his teaching, heard him pray to God the Father, saw him forgive sinners, heal the sick and even bring the dead back to life. Jesus sent the apostles to preach the Gospel, heal, forgive and share God’s love.

At baptism, we became members of the church Jesus built – the Body of Christ – with him as the head of the body. We were anointed with chrism – baptized “into Christ” to be sharers in his life. Trusting in his grace and help, Jesus wants us to share his Good News with others.

Simply put, it means discipleship. By our lives, we are to continue Jesus’ work and mission on earth as faithful stewards of the life, talents and gifts with which we have been blessed.

Jesus says, “Be ready!” The treasure God the Father has waiting for all of us is heaven and happiness with him forever! How to be ready?

“You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your mind;” and “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

Be ready – the reward will be heavenly!