A Reflection for the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time

“…and please help me to have sweet dreams. Father, Son, Holy Spirit. Amen.” My five year year old finished her bedtime prayer as she made the sign of the cross and snuggled up to fall asleep for the night. I hugged her tight, breathing in the familiar sweet scent of her strawberry shampoo. Every time I catch a glimpse of her growing faith, I feel my heart overflow. Through the years I’ve been blessed to observe many such moments. The trust and confidence my children place in the Lord is beautiful to witness. From blowing kisses to Jesus at adoration, to making prayer cards for the deceased classroom hamster, to freely giving their hard-earned dollars to causes, seeing them entrust their hopes, gifts, dreams, every prayer small or large to our Lord challenges and inspires me to do the same. 

How often do I place my confidence in myself for matters mundane thinking our Lord is too busy to be bothered with my small concerns? How often am I tempted to handle mountain sized matters alone? How often do I feel like my gifts- my time, talent, my treasure- are not enough to make a difference?

In today’s Gospel, Jesus’ miracle begins with a boy’s gift. This boy knows his meager food supply is not sufficient  for the large crowd, yet he still gives; he still trusts. Five barley loaves and two fish are then multiplied way beyond enough to feed everyone, and there are TWELVE baskets full of leftovers! Can you imagine the surprise and delight of the boy watching his small offering feeding so many? Can you picture him bringing home baskets of fish and bread to his family, excitedly telling them what happened? Friends, we have the potential to let God surprise and delight us like the boy. Imagine what our Lord could do with our small gifts if we give Him the chance! All we have to do is say yes and hand them over.

Let our eyes look to Him who satisfies the desire of every living thing! Let us live with humility, recognizing our need for God, confidently entrusting Him with all aspects of our lives whether large and small. 

Lord, thank you for Your many gifts and blessings. Help me to recognize and delight in them each day. Help me to give You all You ask without hesitation knowing You answer and care for my every need. Amen.