It is our response with faith to God’s gift that enlivens our hearts by the power of the Holy Spirit, which are further sustained and strengthened by our participation in the sacraments and doing good works. Good works persist as evidence of the grace living in us. It is this response in faith that allows us to store up the right treasure in our hearts as opposed to worldly treasures that Christ reminds us today will not last.

We pray today that we walk in the ways that matter to God—that we build up true and lasting treasure in our hearts—by responding and receiving the gift of salvation with faith. Integrating this faith with recovery takes us on a journey of self-discovery, a renewal of heart, mind, and spirit, and a willingness to respond to God and the world around us with mercy, love, generosity, and kindness. Therefore, may we receive and respond to God’s wonderful gift today with love.

Reflection Questions

• How can you respond to Jesus Christ and His gift of salvation? Has someone ever rejected a gift you’ve tried to give to them and, if so, what was that experience like?
• When you repent or perform a penance, do you do so with a love of Christ and gratitude for His gift of mercy?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 100:1B-2, 3, 4AB, 4C-5
Gospel: Luke 12:13-21

Reflection by Karen D.