Twenty-Sixth Thursday in Ordinary Time

The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart. They are more precious than gold, than a heap of purest gold; Sweeter also than syrup or honey from the comb.

The commandments of our Heavenly Father should give joy to our hearts. The teachings of Jesus should be treasured more than gold. They inspirations of the Holy Spirit should be sweeter than syrup to our souls. There is not a moment of our lives when we are in a state of grace that we shouldn’t be joyful. No matter what our foes might do, no matter how difficult our lives might get, if we trust in God, keep His commandments, and live our lives according to them, then we will have nothing to fear. We shall win the race and enter triumphantly into Heaven.

Do the commandments give us joy? How can we lead lives founded on the golden rule of loving God with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strengths and loving others as He loves us? Are we willing to give up the empty promises of the world for the satisfying inspirations of the Holy Spirit?

O Lord, your precepts give joy to our hearts.

Amen.