Lord, I love your commands.

In the scriptures for this coming Sunday we hear these words from Psalm 119: "Lord, I love your commands." And while this sounds like a nice sentiment, it is worth pausing and pondering how true this really is in our lives.

Sometimes we do indeed love the commands and law of the Lord. However, this is usually when those laws and commands fit our agendas, build up the way we have been living, or allow us in our heads to judge the actions of others. We are quick to quote the Bible or claim pride in our Catholic Christian faith when it benefits us.

But what about those times where the commands of God and of the Church rub up against our lifestyles or political opinions? What about those times where we have sinned, and we know it, and we feel guilt? Are these times when we love the commands of the Lord?

In the parables in this Sunday's Gospel, Jesus compares the Kingdom to a treasure or a pearl of great price. In them, Jesus makes the point of saying that the Kingdom of Heaven is worth staking everything, one's whole life and livelihood, to be a part of it. While it is sometimes hard to believe that on this side of eternity, Jesus assures us of its truth. And part of the life of faith is living in such a way to be a part of Kingdom here and now... even when it is uncomfortable or inconvenient or contrary to our fleeting emotions or political opinions.

So, as we continue forward in our Christian lives this week, let this be our prayer: that we may grow each day in our ability to say with conviction "Lord, I love your commands." And slowly, as this sentiment changes from mere words to the truth that takes hold of our hearts, we can be confident that Jesus will see and, in his mercy, welcome us into the eternal Kingdom of Heaven.

Want to prepare your heart and mind for Mass this weekend? Click here to find the readings for this Sunday's Mass.