Reflections from the Heart – November 17, 2024

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
by Fr. Ivan Olmo

“But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” At times, we say knowledge is power and certainly at times, it is. When we have information the other party does not possess, have or own, it gives us the clear advantage, the upper hand. If we know where the treasure is or how to obtain it, we are off to a good start, a head start. We do not have to spend or waste time looking for the treasure; just determine how to obtain it. Our competitors, on the other hand, lack the information necessary to begin or the way to start looking. So clearly, the advantage is ours. For when information is at hand and readily available, we can better make long-term plans, better determine the best possible financial outcome, better forecast the best possible earnings, profits, and shares and determine the best possible, most profitable and securest career path, the best person to marry to begin a family with or even discern and answer our vocational call. Knowledge is certainly helpful, useful and powerful when used properly in accordance with God’s plan. Knowledge also at times can be a temptation, a near occasion for sin. We misuse knowledge for selfish gain. We misuse knowledge in ambitious ways to destroy another’s good name, obtain their fortune, or hurt their family and steal their fame. Knowledge of this sort becomes a weapon in the wrong hands. It becomes hurtful rather than information that can be helpful to those who do not know and can benefit from it in a good way. Meaning the knowledge gives Glory to God and helps others obtain his grace. The information helps heal the broken hearted, assists the poor or brings reconciliation to those hurting or separated by greed or sin. Knowledge is a gift from God, a gift of the Holy Spirit, Jesus himself. God invites us to know him ever more intimately. To know all he has done to create us, redeem us, save us and bless us. This kind of knowledge is helpful, useful, a blessing. What can we possibly know unless God reveals it, shares it and teaches us? We at times focus on self-knowledge. We claim to teach ourselves and know what no one else knows. We say, I knew it, I told you so, I am the only who knows, but God says no one knows except the Father, who invites us to simply know how much he loves and forgives us.