Obedience has almost become a bad word in our culture which values radical individualism and autonomy. However, the word obedience actually means “to listen.” It reflects the understanding that we do not have all the answers, but that we are indebted to one another and especially to God for all that we have. Jeremiah today calls out the Israelites for their failure to heed the commandments and respond to God’s will with gratitude and joy. Although not many of us like being told what to do, obedience to God’s will is actually very liberating and life-giving. It allows us to proclaim a truth that is greater than ourselves, and it gives us clarity of thought. Once we recognize in humility that God desires us to truly be free not enslaved to sin, passion, vice, and malice, then we can truly appreciate the fact that we have the opportunity to hear God’s word every time we come to Mass. We can hear the voice of God every time we pray and actually listen in silence. May we always respond wholeheartedly to God’s call: “Speak Lord, for your servant is listening!”

Prayer:
“Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will, All I have and call my own. You have given all to me. To you, Lord, I return it. Everything is yours; do with it what you will. Give me only your love and your grace, that is enough for me.” – St. Ignatius of Loyola, 1491-1556

Action:
Fast from something that normally occupies much of your time (social media, television, online games etc.), and dedicate this time to prayer and discipling your wants and desires.