30th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Our readings for the 30th Sunday of Ordinary Time are:

1. Sirach 35: 12-14, 16-18
2. Psalms 34: 2-3, 17-18, 19, 23
3. 2 Timothy 4: 6-8, 16-18
4. Luke 18 9-14

• I'm proud of my work, too bad about yours ...
• We often hear of growing concern over an "entitlement mentality" in which a person feels that they are entitled to a living, no matter what they do or don't do about their present condition.
• What sorts of things do you feel entitled to?
• Does everyone have the same entitlements?
• If not, how do you differ from the "teeming masses of humanity"?

• I'm proud, but only in the best way possible
• What are some things that you are proud of?
• Does that pride draw you closer to God, make you more devoted, or push God away from you?
• How can you tell excessive pride, or sinful pride, versus a justifiable pride?

• Be proud of what you are proud of
• It's always good to take stock of our lives and ask ourselves what we think will go on our tombstone, versus what we would like to go on our tombstone.
• Given where you are in life, what do you thin is likely to go on your tombstone?
• Does that inspire or excite you?
• What could you do to make your tombstone more exciting?

• Mercy me
• Do you ever feel the need for God's mercy in your life?
• How does that make you feel about yourself, God, you fellow people?
• Where do you find that mercy?
• How has it changed you?

Preparation for Reconciliation:

1. Do I count on God for what I need, or what I want?
2. What am I doing to keep my pride under control?
3. What do I want to accomplish before I die?
4. How am I growing in appreciation for God's mercy?

In My Humble Opinion

Humility is all about being clear
About who and what we are,
And whose we are.

It's easy to lose track of our place
When we're told that the greatest sin
Is not getting what we got coming.

Dear God,
Thank you that my back is strong and straight
Teach me to use that strength in your service.

Thank you that I have learned to see
A few things clearly here and there
Teach me to share that lovingly with others.

Thank you that I'm pretty sure
Where my next meal is coming from
Teach me to be generous to those who don't.

Teach me most of all to have a humble heart,
That I see how lavishly I've been blessed
And find new ways daily to give thanks.

Shalom!