“The LORD is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger and of great kindness.”
Psalm 145: 8
Readings
Isaiah 55: 1-3
Letter of St. Paul to the Romans 8:35, 37-39
Gospel According to Matthew 14: 13-21
Reflection
By Sister Maureen Niedermeyer, OSB
In today’s reading, we hear about the importance of listening to God’s Word. It is in prayerful silence that our God who is an extravagant lover speaks to our hearts. In the gospel, Jesus leaves the solitude He longs for to be with the crowds who have followed him and now need food. The apostles listen to his instruction in this process. They seem concerned only with how little food was there. Perhaps we also concentrate on what little we have to share. But, our little bit of patience, courage, and love can be multiplied by the power of God’s love.
In our first reading, the prophet Isaiah says, “Listen that you may have life.” All that we need is lavishly given. God knows no bounds and is generous to all.
The Responsorial Psalm echoes the message that God knows our needs and will listen when we cry out to Him. Do we forget this promise when troubles pile up? We can feel overwhelmed by all that is going on our world now, but can we remember St. Paul’s message that nothing can separate us from God’s love?
From the Rule of St. Benedict
“Listen carefully, my son, my daughter, to my instructions and attend to them with the ear of your heart.” Rule of St. Benedict, Prologue v. 1
Gospel Acclamation
“One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.” Mt. 4:4b