"The Search for Happiness": Reflection for October 11, 2009, 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time

28th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Wisdom 7: 7-11; Hebrews 4:12-13; Mark 10: 17-30
Today's Scripture can be found at http://www.usccb.org/nab

Throughout history people have tried to satisfy the basic human quest for happiness and fulfillment in many ways. Increased material possessions, power, leisure or recreational activities have often been used to fulfill this quest. Indeed, the search continues as people seek new items.
Yet, as God’s Word today reminds us, somehow none of these items has ever brought lasting happiness (Mark). Human beings need something more (Wisdom), something that gives true life to one's inner spirit (Hebrews). True happiness comes with this wisdom, as one learns to value what is really important in life.
God’s Word challenges us to evaluate our expectations of happiness and to consider the ways that we seek to fulfill our longing for happiness. After that challenge, we face the challenge to make a change or two in our lives.

To think about:
Where do I experience fulfillment and happiness?
Do I and my family ever try to differentiate between “want” and “need”?
Have I tried to simplify my life by buying less or acquiring less?
Are there simple joys I fail to notice because I am already involved in some future moment?

To do: Grow in wisdom by “counting your blessings” as you are going to sleep. Have your child do this too.
Practice having less by giving money that you would have spent for yourself to a group that helps others.
Clean out one drawer or part of one closet and enjoy the “pleasure of less”. Listening to music or to an audiobook while you're doing this can make the task go faster!

To pray: “There is a longing in our hearts, O God, for you to reveal yourself to us.”

Next week: 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Isaiah 53: 10-11; Hebrews 4: 14-16; Mark 10: 35-45