Read Baruch 4:5-12,27-29, Ps. 69:33-37, Luke 10:17-24
“I thank thee, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to babes; yea, Father, for such was thy gracious will.” (Luke 10:21)
Today’s first reading from the prophet Baruch is one of the many places where the Bible exposes the secret truth about human happiness. It says: “As your hearts have been disposed to stray from God, turn ten times the more to seek him; For he who has brought disaster upon you will, in saving you, bring you enduring joy.” (Baruch 4:28-29).
The truth cannot be more than this: only God has what it takes to make us happy. Only God, who created us, has the key to our happiness. “Our hearts are restless,” says St. Augustine, “until they rest in God.”
Baruch says our sadness, misery and pain are because we turned our backs on God and refused to worship him wholeheartedly. In this 21st century, we have turned to other gods (immorality, wild passions, materialism, corruption, etc.) for what only God can give us.
Our inner restlessness is not a result of a lack of material comforts but the lack of a solid connection with God. Even though we gather all the pleasurable things in the world, make all the money, and become the most powerful persons, we would still be UNHAPPY if we lacked a connection with God. The best we can ever get away from God is a tickling of our senses, but genuine happiness is found only in God.
See how the disciples of Jesus came back in today’s Gospel passage to report their exploits. They were really happy. Jesus said: “Do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you; but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” (Luke 10:20).
Nothing should or can bring you greater happiness than knowing that your name is written in heaven. What is the point of all our struggles here on earth if, at the end of it all, we are not certain whether or not we will rest peacefully in heaven? What else can bring greater happiness than spending quality time before God in prayer and having a deep sense of peace and inner calmness?
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, keep my heart with you always that I may always remain happy. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Our Lady of the Rosary, Liturgical Colour: White. Bible Study: Baruch 4:5-12,27-29, Ps. 69:33-37, Luke 10:17-24).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu