God Creates, God Loves

Readings for Sunday, October 30, 2016 — 31st Sunday of Ordinary Time

Wisdom 11:22-12:2; Psalm 145:1-2, 8-10, 13, 14; 2 Thessalonians 1:11- 2:2; Luke 19:1-10

Suggested Reflection Questions:

  • Today’s reading from the Book of Wisdom reminds us that creation is an expression of God’s love. God creates because God loves and God loves all that God creates. How does this passage inform our approach to sanctity of life issues? Issues of environmental responsibility?

  • The psalmist offers a stirring song of praise to God, Creator and King. “The LORD is good to all and compassionate toward all his works,” the hymn proclaims. This is a statement of radical faith and hope in a world wrought with suffering. How do you see this statement reflected in your daily life?

  • Zacchaeus scrambles up a sycamore tree in order to see Jesus passing along the road. His desire to see and know the Lord is so great that he is willing to do something unseemly for a man of his social standing. Are we willing to do be scoffed at in our passionate pursuit of God? How can we imitate Zacchaeus’ zeal to find God and willingness to be changed by his presence in our lives?