Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

Dear Friends,

Today’s Gospel can be very intimidating and prompts a powerful reflection on our willingness to speak out and profess our faith to others. This Gospel reminds me of the gravity that our testimonies have and the effect that we can have on each other if we share with each other how God is working in our lives. Hearing these stories will not only inspire our brothers and sisters in the faith but also those that do not yet have faith. In the Gospel, Jesus reminds us that the Holy Spirit will provide the words we need in that time. We must trust that God will help us make our testimonies and will guide us.

For me, this Gospel prompts the question: How strong is my faith? And am I willing to suffer for my faith? If not - what do I need to do to get there? At the root of these questions is the strength of our personal relationship with God. How well do we know Him? How often do we speak to Him? How often do we listen to Him? Does your faith enrich your life or does it change your life? Faith is a gift but it needs to be chosen and cultivated.

As we go through different seasons of life, there will be times when we have a story to share and there will be times when we need to hear the stories of others. Even if you are not comfortable sharing, I invite you to take some time and reflect on what you would tell someone if they asked: “Why do you believe in God?” or “How is God working in your life right now?” As St. Peter tells us, “Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope” (1 Peter 3:15).

As a word of encouragement, Jesus ends this Gospel with the reassurance that we are never alone. Not everyone will receive our testimony with gratitude and grace but the Lord assures us that He will protect us. There is vulnerability in sharing our faith with each other but as C.S. Lewis reminds us, “To love at all is to be vulnerable”. Today’s Gospel is a sobering reminder that faith and love are not always comfortable. We will be called to do things that we do not want to do. But God is always with us and brings fruit from all things (Romans 8:28).

May God bless you,

Amy