Friday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time
At the top of the steps as you enter our home we have a display of photos of our family–an individual picture of each of the kids and a family photo, all of which surround a cross that was gifted to us several years ago with the phrase, “as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Today’s first reading is the precursor to this great exaltation by Joshua; it is a reflection by Joshua of the continuous commitment of our good God to his people; a recap of his life and the unconditional love of God toward the people of Israel: “gave you a land that you had not tilled and cities that you had not built, to dwell in; you have eaten of vineyards and olive groves which you did not plant.” (Jos 24:13)
As I reflect on the first reading, it is fascinating to consider why Joshua called attention to these specific events in his farewell speech to the nation (spoiler alert: Joshua dies at the end of this chapter). I can’t help but think about many of the events of my own life and the lives of those who have gone before me that have brought me to this moment. It is not always clear at the time, but God delivers us in our own ways. One of my favorite personal stories to share is my path to college. My senior year of high school, I had the opportunity to spend an hour in eucharistic adoration weekly. Every Sunday, I would go to bed for a couple of hours and then wake up in the middle of the night to drive to my local parish to take my adoration hour at 1 o’clock in the morning. As part of my prayer each week, I would spend time praying for guidance in my discernment for college. I would light a votive candle and say a prayer asking God to guide me to the right place after high school. My prayer sounded nice but internally, I was begging God to help me get accepted to the University of Notre Dame (it was my dream school). Well, for those of you who don’t know my story, I didn’t get into Notre Dame; I attended the University of Dayton, had a transformative experience, grew in my faith, made some amazing friends, and met my future wife. I believe God’s love and faithfulness delivered me to where I belonged. I didn’t recognize it at the time I was in high school, but it is quite clear to me now. Calling to mind my blessings drives me to love and serve the Lord.
There is a quote attributed to St. Thomas Aquinas that connects to the life of Joshua and is a beautiful reminder for that of our own lives: Work as if everything depended on you. Pray as if everything depends on God. Our psalm today is an opportunity to rejoice in the goodness of our loving and merciful God. Let us recall the many blessings in our lives and recognize the Lord’s handiwork.
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,
For his mercy endures forever;
Give thanks to the God of gods,
For his mercy endures forever;
Give thanks to the LORD of lords,
For his mercy endures forever. (Ps 136:1-3)
Peace,
Brandon Meyer