Overview:

Thursday of the Sixteenth Week of Ordinary Time

A Reflection for Thursday of the Sixteenth Week of Ordinary Time

“For with you is the fountain of life,
and in your light we see light.
Keep up your mercy toward your friends,
your just defense of the upright of heart.” (Psalm 36:10-11)

Find today’s readings here.

Recently, I had a meaningful conversation with a friend. It was one of those moments that stays with you long after you both finish talking.

We reached the topic of vocational discernment, and he challenged me to think deeply about “the desires of my heart,” “how I’m called to love best” and “the gifts I’ve been entrusted with.”

Just your typical post-work chat over a beer.

I was thinking about our discussion in light of today’s responsorial psalm, and the following line in particular: “In your light we see light.”

My friend, in essence, was shining a light (via his thoughtful questions) on my own light (my talents, interests and passions). His words of encouragement, along with his ability to healthily challenge my thinking, helped me come to some profound realizations about myself.

Of course, this verse is written about the great glory of God and the promise of everlasting life. But over the course of my own life, I have found God most clearly in the people around me. Through their love, their kindness and their intentionality.

This conversation was one in a long line of life-giving moments inspired by some of the people closest to me. I strive daily, as we also hear in today’s responsorial psalm, to “keep up [my] mercy toward [my] friends.” Because they continue to lift me up every day.

Jackson Goodman is the Strategic Programs Manager at America Media, creating mission-driven events in partnership with Jesuit schools and parishes. He is a graduate of Fordham Prep and Boston College.