“You are what you do, not what you say you'll do.”

“The more often he feels without acting, the less he will be able ever to act, and, in the long run, the less he will be able to feel.” ― C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters

Scripture Text: (PRV 21:1-6, 10-13 )
Like a stream is the king’s heart in the hand of the LORD;
wherever it pleases him, he directs it.

All the ways of a man may be right in his own eyes,
but it is the LORD who proves hearts.

To do what is right and just
is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.

Haughty eyes and a proud heart–
the tillage of the wicked is sin.

The plans of the diligent are sure of profit,
but all rash haste leads certainly to poverty.

Whoever makes a fortune by a lying tongue
is chasing a bubble over deadly snares.

The soul of the wicked man desires evil;
his neighbor finds no pity in his eyes.

When the arrogant man is punished, the simple are the wiser;
when the wise man is instructed, he gains knowledge.

The just man appraises the house of the wicked:
there is one who brings down the wicked to ruin.

He who shuts his ear to the cry of the poor
will himself also call and not be heard.

Very simply put, today’s lesson emphasizes the importance of listening, not just hearing.

This certainly reminds me of something our beloved Pope Francis has called to our attention. One must not only hear, but respond to the cry of the poor. We must remember that the poor aren’t only those who lack in material things, but those lacking security, self- esteem, and the feeling of being loved to name a few items that we take for granted. We must listen, and be prepared to respond to the needs of each other. Sometimes we are just too busy to do this, or we presume that somebody else will also hear, and take care of the response part so we don’t have to.

As we struggle to do God's will in our lives, we come closer and closer to Him. Just as Jesus can see us in connection with Him, we are called to broaden our vision, and see others as connected to us. What would happen if we and all others of good will who strive to "hear the word of God and act on it," were to come together and work for the kingdom? What if we were to nurture and care for each other as the best families do? What if we let go of the family and tribal and racial hatreds that have given rise to genocide and destruction in our world? Jesus calls us to follow Him as sisters and brothers in loving the world and working for the kingdom. May we hear the word of God and act on it.