Daily Reflection for Thursday, August 19, 2021
Peace and Blessings, Friends and Parishioners,
We encourage you to reflect on Thursday's readings at this link:
https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/081921.cfm
If you prefer to use your own Bible, the readings are:
First Reading: Judges 11: 29-39
Responsorial: Psalm 40: 5, 7-8a, 8b-9, 10
Gospel: Matthew 22: 1-14
Our reflection on Thursday’s readings:
Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will. (Psalm 40: 8a,9a)
I always had a strong appreciation for the song, Here I am Lord by Dan Schutte. I will often listen to the song and reflect on the lyrics when discerning decisions, especially major ones. The Psalm response today is Here I am Lord; I come to do your will. As I read and reflect on the Psalm and listen to the words of this contemplative song, I ask myself, ‘how do I know I am doing? God’s will?’ And the simple and transparent truth is, I really don’t know.
Today’s Psalm, comforts me as I wake up every morning with resolve to follow God’s will for me. For some reason, the realization, that I really don’t know if I am fulfilling God’s will, does not discourage me. It encourages me to continue the search for God’s will for me. This practice alone helps me look for God in all things and through all things. It helps me hold on to the belief that God is always there especially during the times when my choices stray me off the path.
As I wake up this morning, and open the screen door, I notice how still the trees are this morning. The summer day is filled with the gentle sound of birds chirping. And as I sit, soaking in this moment, I whisper ever so quietly, Here I am Lord; I come to do your will.
May your search for God’s will for you never cease,
Margarita Solis Deal