33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

How often have we, in our fears and insecurities, held back from sharing our gifts, expressing love, and embodying virtue? Moments arise when we choose silence over truth to preserve peace or doubt our potential as instruments of God's love and mercy. Spe Salvi resounds, reminding us that we were created for greatness—for God Himself. Though our hearts may seem too small for such destined greatness, they must be stretched.

Throughout the readings, we find echoes of this call to greatness. Proverbs 31 illustrates the transformative power of small, daily acts through the portrayal of a woman of valor. Matthew 25 reinforces the message of faithful stewardship in small things, aligning with the need for our hearts to stretch. As children of the light, we are beckoned to transcend worldly peace and security, recognizing God's desire to work through us (1 Thes 5).

The call to greatness challenges us to move beyond our doubts. The dullness of our hearts can hinder us from living a life of light, transforming societal standards of apathy and the status quo. Embracing this call means allowing God to use our material and spiritual littleness for great things. As we await the unexpected day of the Lord, let us be children of the light, confidently stretching our hearts in even the smallest matters, for it is in these acts that we may find the potential to transform our broken world.

In what ways have your fears and insecurities hindered you from fully expressing your God-given gifts?

How do the readings align with the idea of faithful stewardship in small things and the stretching of our hearts?

How can your small acts of kindness make a positive impact in the world and show love in everyday situations?