Twenty-Sixth Thursday of Ordinary Time

"Today is holy to the LORD your God. Do not be sad, and do not weep"–for all the people were weeping as they heard the words of the law. He said further: "Go, eat rich foods and drink sweet drinks, and allot portions to those who had nothing prepared; for today is holy to our LORD. Do not be saddened this day, for rejoicing in the LORD must be your strength!" And the Levites quieted all the people, saying, "Hush, for today is holy, and you must not be saddened." Then all the people went to eat and drink, to distribute portions, and to celebrate with great joy, for they understood the words that had been expounded to them.

We might not weep when the Word of God is read to us during mass or when we delve into the Bible at home, but the Scriptures should affect us in some way. They should inspire us to become better people. They should give us strength to carry our burdens. They should bring us happiness and joy. They should give us the light of hope in our hours of darkness. They should remind us of how much we are loved by God and how much He has to say to us every day… if only we would listen.

Are we listening to the Word of God? How can we be more faithful messengers of the Good News? What can we do to carry forth the love of God as expressed within the Scriptures?

O Lord, make us living fonts of your word.

Amen.