17TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Whenever the cloud rose from the Dwelling, the children of Israel would set out on their journey.

The Israelites must have been amazed by God’s love and faithfulness. He didn’t abandon them after he had rescued them from slavery. Instead, he dwelled with them, assuring them of his constant presence by the cloud and fire that settled on the meeting tent. And that’s not all. He also showed them exactly when to remain at their camp and when to continue on their journey through the wilderness. What a great gift this was for Moses and his people!

Wouldn’t it be great if we knew what God wanted when he wanted it? Yet the same gracious and loving God who accompanied the Israelites still dwells with us through his Holy Spirit. And though we don’t have a cloud to direct us, he continues to guide us and lead us today.

So how does the Spirit guide us? Through the Scriptures, which reveal who he is and how we can live in the freedom he has won for us. Through his presence in every tabernacle, where we can sit before Jesus in the Eucharist and listen for his word to us. Through the beauty and wisdom of the Church’s teachings, which are eternal truths that have stood the test of time. And through our brothers and sisters in the faith, whose example can inspire us and show us how to live an abundant and fruitful life.

We all experience times when we yearn for explicit, step-by-step direction from the Lord. Yet we can trust that in all the ways he has provided for us, we will be able to discern the answer to all the choices and dilemmas we face.

Are you looking for more concrete direction about a particular issue in your life? Be like the Israelites and keep your eyes fixed on the Lord. Sometimes his answer is as obvious as the cloud covering the meeting tent. Sometimes his answer is not as clear, but that may be because God has confidence in your ability to make a good choice. Whatever the case, know that the Lord is pleased by your willingness to be led by him!

“Father, I want to follow you. Show me the way you want me to go.”

Exodus 40:16-21, 34-38
Psalm 84:3-6, 8, 11
Matthew 13:47-53