Join us this weekend as we celebrate the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Using three other parables about the kingdom of heaven, today's Gospel
provides accounts of joyful discovery, each character making their discoveries in familiar places:
A man finds treasure in his field, a merchant of pearls finds a unique pearl,
and fishermen find themselves with nets so full of fish that they need to throw some back.
Jesus announces that the kingdom of heaven is in our midst,
but he also announces the consequences of those who reject it.
Even so, the Father consistently promises and offers his abundant mercy and forgiveness;
his recompense is true love and the freedom to love and care for others unconditionally.
Such was the case with Solomon in the first reading,
who was rewarded with many blessings because he did not ask for wealth or power,
but simply for the wisdom of God.  We need to listen to the word proclaimed,
so the seeds of God's love will flourish in our hearts.
But only hearts open to receive the message can share in its joy.
Music with links for this weekend:

10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)
Jonas Myrin, Matt Redman

Drawn To You
Sarah Hart

Thy Word Is a Lamp
Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant

Psalm 63: My Soul Is Thirsting/As Morning Breaks
Steve Angrisano

Seek Ye First
Karen Lafferty

A Rightful Place
Steve Angrisano

Let There Be Peace on Earth
Sy Miller, Jill Jackson