Thursday in the Twenty-Third Week of Ordinary Time

“If one loves God, one is known by him” (1 Cor. 8:3). Later in this same epistle, Saint Paul takes up this theme again. “Now we see only a dim reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now my knowledge is piecemeal; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known” (1 Cor. 13:12). As hard as it is for us to admit, we are handicapped in our ability to love God. Because of our life’s experience, we don’t see things clearly, but through a cloud. Our vision is impaired and our minds are muddled. Try as we might, we cannot focus our attention on the One Thing that matters. The Good News is, that the Sun of Justice has risen. The brilliant rays shining from his sacred heart will burn away the mist and reveal the hidden treasure to us. By the power of the Holy Spirit at work in us, we will see the Truth clearly as he who is the truth sees us. Being conformed to the Son, we will come to know the Father just as he knows us. As we grow in our understanding of God’s overwhelming goodness our hearts will be expanded by the inexpressible sweetness of unconditional love.

May the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ, the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and of all the saints, whatever good you do and suffering you endure, heal your sins, help you to grow in holiness, and reward you with eternal life. Go in peace.