A Jesuit Catholic University
in Omaha, Nebraska, since 1878

Proverbs 21:1-6, 10-13 Psalms 119:1, 27, 30, 34, 35, 44 Luke 8:19-21

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections

“To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.” -Proverbs 21:3

Before the Second Vatican Council, the Catholic Rite of Marriage had three vows that a person would make to their spouse.  They would promise to love, honor, and OBEY their spouse all the days of their life.  Since Vatican II, 'obey' has been removed from the vows.  However, I still see value in its inclusion.  I believe that obedience is still an absolutely essential part of love, especially when it comes to loving God. 

The Gospel today, although very short, portrays this theme when Jesus says, “’My mother and my brothers,’” in other words those closest to him, “’are those who hear the word of God and act on it.’”  Every person is called by God to a special vocation during their lives.  Our goal as Christians is to pursue a life that eventually leads to sainthood.  It is important to remember that saints did not become saints because they were super holy, performed miracles, or started religious orders.  People become saints when they hear God’s command for their lives, and out of love, they choose to obey it.  Therefore, our task is simply to listen for the Word of God and be obedient to him. God will always love us regardless of our choices, but in return for his love, the only thing we can do for him is offer our lives to his service.  To love God requires obedience, but our obedience will bring us closer into communion with him and, in the end, will gain us eternal happiness with him.