St. Andrew Catholic Church

Brothers and Sisters,

If you grew up with the Baltimore Catechism, you’ll remember one ofthe questions: “Why did God make you?”  And the answer was: “God made me to know Him, to love Him, and to serve Him in this world, and to be happy with Him forever in heaven.”

Very simple but very true - God made us for heaven, and this life is meant to be a preparation. Lots of people today talk about planning for “the future.” However, when they speak about the future, they’re speaking about retirement. And that’s fine. But as Catholics, the most important future we need to plan for is not retirement.

This is what Jesus says to us in today’s Gospel. In his parables of the buried treasure and the pearl of great price, Jesus speaks about spending all of one’s resources to gain the Kingdom of God. God helps prepare us for this life by presenting us with choices, because choices determine our commitments, and commitments shape our character, and it’s our character we’ll take with us into eternity.

In today’s first reading from First Kings, we heard how God tested Solomon by offering him anything he might ask for. Solomon refused selfish gifts of power, riches, or long life, and choosing instead wisdom, that he might better serve God’s people. We have choices every single day.

We heard St. Paul speak in today’s reading from his letter to the Romans. He said: “We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.”

In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells us we will receive great joy for seeking the Kingdom of God.

Pastor’s Question of the Week: Is Christ our main concern as we go about our day?

Pastor’s Question of the Children: Do you pray a few times a day?