“Lists and Lists” by Rick Stevens, Fiat Ventures
18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
When I was growing up, it seemed that my life was always consumed by lists. My parents were especially fond of lists and I guess that’s where I got it from. I remember more days than not, coming home from school and finding a list taped to my bedroom door. Take the trash out, cut the grass, clean your room and so on. Of course that was their list, and it made them happy when everything was crossed off.
Then I had my own list; not of chores, but of things I wanted that I thought would make me happy. A new bike, new pair of jeans, tickets to see my favorite band in concert. I truly believed that when I had everything on my list, I would be happy. Unfortunately, as some items on the list got checked off, other items got added.
Of course, as I grew older, the stakes got much higher. The bicycle turned into a car and the concert tickets turned into acceptance to that prestigious university. What I finally realized was that the happiness the items on my checklist brought me came and went.
In today’s Gospel reading, Jesus compares bread that perishes for the happiness that is associated with worldly goods, which also doesn’t last. The only way to achieve true lasting joy is through a life in Christ, and the best way to do that is with yet another list!
That list, of course, is the Seven Sacraments. Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Matrimony, Holy Orders, and Anointing of the Sick. Incorporated into Christ by Baptism, we are invited and encouraged to participate in the life of our Savior. We also need to spend time with Jesus face to face. The best way to do this is through the Eucharist. By receiving communion regularly, we are nourished with the grace that inspires us and sustains us, helping us live a life that is pleasing to God. When we understand our sinfulness and receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation often, God forgives us for our sins, we are strengthened in the hope that we can learn to do better.
Empowered by God’s grace in the Sacraments, we are able to put our faith into action. The things we do can be as simple as praying for someone in need, forgiving someone who wronged us or welcoming the new kid in school that everyone is making fun of. By conforming our thoughts, actions and words to the example of Jesus Christ, we share in the inheritance of His kingdom.
Personal prayer is also important. Prayer is a two-way conversation that deepens our relationship with Jesus. We can pour out our innermost thoughts to a loving God and then patiently listen for his response. As Jesus says in the Gospels, this life in Him is the only thing that can bring us real, lasting joy and peace. So move that to the top of YOUR list.
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