From the Deacon's Desk

Each day, I reflect upon a word or a phrase from the readings of the day. I encourage you to do the same and perhaps incorporate that word or phrase into your daily prayer.

For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be. (Matthew 6:19-23)

TREASURE: As is the case with all scripture, there are multiple ways of interpreting this passage from the Gospel of Matthew. I will look at it from two perspectives.

First, from a “put your money where your mouth is” perspective. You can learn so much about people by looking at how they spend their money, their monetary treasure.

For instance, if you examined how Carol and I spend our money, you’d likely make certain assumptions about us: They must have grandchildren – there is a good amount of cash going toward toys and kid clothes. Someone must be a football fan – they are willing to pay (too much) for DirectTV NFL Sunday Ticket. These people like movies – based on monthly date nights to the movie theatre.

You would also be able to assume, based on the financial support we offer, that we value Catholic education, our parish, and the dignity of all human life.

Second, the gospel passage speaks to us from a “how do you spend your time?” perspective. I think this type of expenditure paints an even clearer picture of what we value. Writing a check is often the easy part; spending time shows a greater commitment. Time is our real treasure.

So the gospel asks, “How do you spend your time?” How much of our time is spent on satisfying our own needs? How much is spent on the needs of God? Of others?

We might declare, “We go to Mass every week!”

However, there are 168 hours in a week. What are we doing the other 167 hours?