Father Michael's Weekly Reflection

"Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will." (Mt. 11:26)

This is the Fourteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time. Jesus praises the Father for revealing His mystery to little ones. Jesus said, "I always do what pleases Him," referring to the constant state of his soul. He never took his eyes off the Father. This shows the purity of his intention and his single mindedness.

The same is not always true for us. We are to live in the world as if it's just us and God. At the end of our lives that will be the truth. There will be no one around when we have to give an account of our lives and who we lived for. Human respect is the guillotine of saints. May our intention always be, "Does this give the greatest glory to God?" If so, do it.

Questions for Reflection:

• Do I purify my intention often?
• Am I aware that every free act of mine is intentional?
• Does self-love and an overconcern with praise seep into my decisions?