Collect for 17th Sunday Ordinary Time

 

COLLECT SERIES

The Mass: Collect Series Icon:

 

COLLECT

 

The Collect for 17tj Sunday Ordinary Time reads as follows:

O God, protector of those who hope in You,

Without whom nothing has firm foundation,

Nothing is holy,

Bestow in abundance Your mercy upon us and grant that,

With You as our ruler and guide,

We may use the good things that pass in such a way

 as to hold fast even now to those that ever endure.

Through Our Lord Jesus Christ Your Son,

Who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God for ever and ever.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

In making this prayer tangible the following reflection questions emerged:

1. How do I relate to God as my protector?
2. How does the gift of hope show in my life?
3. How will the gift of hope be used in my life this coming week?
4. How will I allow Jesus to be my ruler and guide this coming week?
5. What are the good things/temporal things I am grateful for ?
6. What temporal values do I hold too tightly? How will I surrender them this coming week?
7. What spiritual goals will I pursue this coming week?

GOSPEL REFLECTION

In Matthew 13:44-52, we encounter a series of parables shared by Jesus, each containing profound spiritual lessons. These parables provide insights into the kingdom of heaven and offer valuable reflections on faith, discipleship, and the pursuit of eternal treasures.

The first two parables, the "Hidden Treasure" and the "Pearl of Great Value," share a common theme: the incomparable worth of the kingdom of heaven. In the first parable, a man discovers a hidden treasure buried in a field and, recognizing its value, sells all that he has to acquire the field and claim the treasure for himself. Similarly, in the second parable, a merchant finds a pearl of extraordinary worth and sells everything he possesses to obtain it. These stories emphasize that encountering the kingdom of heaven is a life-changing event that demands radical commitment. The true seeker of God's kingdom willingly sacrifices all earthly attachments and desires, recognizing the incomparable treasure that awaits them in God's presence.

The third parable, the "Net and the Fish," illustrates the final judgment. Just as a fishing net catches all kinds of fish, the gospel message reaches all people. However, not everyone who hears the message responds positively. In the end, God will separate the righteous from the wicked, welcoming the faithful into His kingdom while condemning the unrepentant.

The fourth parable, the "Householder," demonstrates the importance of understanding and sharing God's truth. A wise scribe, well-versed in the kingdom of heaven, is compared to a householder who brings out both old and new treasures from his storehouse. This teaches us that as believers, we must diligently study God's Word and be ready to draw upon the wisdom of the past while applying it to present circumstances. Our knowledge of God's truth equips us to share His message effectively and lead others to a deeper understanding of His kingdom.

These parables collectively invite us to reflect on the true nature of faith. The pursuit of God's kingdom is not a passive endeavour. It requires an active and deliberate response, a willingness to surrender our old ways, and a readiness to embrace the transformative power of God's truth in our lives. Additionally, these parables encourage us to prioritize eternal values over temporary pleasures and earthly possessions.

In conclusion, Matthew 13:44-52 challenges us to seek God's kingdom with fervor, to recognize its surpassing value, and to be prepared for its final fulfillment. It reminds us that our journey of faith involves sacrifices, sharing the good news with others, and being grounded in the timeless truths of God's Word. May these parables inspire us to live wholeheartedly for God's kingdom, experiencing the joy and fulfillment that come from knowing and serving Him faithfully.