Where Is My Heart Today?

God has planted something beautiful in each of us. Some of us sing. Some cook, teach, organise, lead, design, serve quietly in the background. Some are the first to smile, the first to comfort, the first to welcome someone new. These are not just abilities. They are gifts from a generous God, meant to be used with love.

But how easy it is to forget the Giver.

Sometimes, our talents can make us proud. When things go well, we begin to feel that we did it all on our own. We become the centre of the story. We forget how it all began. We forget that it was God who gave the gift in the first place, and that He gave it freely.

And when we forget, we begin to live for ourselves.

Jesus tells us today about a man who did just that. His land produced an abundant harvest. Instead of giving thanks or sharing with others, he told himself, “Build bigger barns. Store it all. Then rest, eat, drink, and enjoy.” But that very night, his life was taken. And all that he had stored up could not save him.

The man thought he had secured his future. But he had forgotten the most important truth. Life itself is a gift.

This is not just a story about one man long ago. It is a question for all of us. Where do I place my trust? Do I build bigger barns in my own way? Do I live as if my talents and my time belong only to me?

Even in the life of the Church, this can happen. We begin in ministry with joy and service. But slowly, we can forget the why behind what we do. We might start comparing ourselves with others. We may feel entitled to recognition. We might start holding on too tightly to our role or contribution, forgetting that everything in ministry is borrowed from God.

We may even forget the simple joy of serving.

In our parish, we are blessed with so many who give of themselves week after week. Our choir members show up faithfully to lead us in worship. Hospitality teams arrive early to welcome. Ministers prepare quietly behind the scenes.

But today, on Catechetical Sunday, we give special thanks for our catechists and RCIA formators. These are the ones who pass on the faith with patience, love and conviction. Whether they are teaching our children, journeying with seekers, preparing couples for marriage or guiding those returning to the faith, they do more than teach. They witness. They serve with the talents God has given them, not for praise, but because they know the value of a soul returning to God.

And yet, even in this good and noble work, we are reminded not to forget the Giver. To never serve out of routine or pride, but to return again and again to the heart of ministry. Gratitude.

Saint Paul writes, “Set your minds on things above, not on things on earth. For you have died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:2–3).

We are called to live fully in this world. To use our gifts, to work hard, to make a difference. But we do it not for our own glory, not for applause, not to build our own little kingdom. We do it for Him.

So today, we ask ourselves:

• Where is my heart?
• Am I thankful for what I have, or am I always chasing more?
• Have I let my talents point others to God, or have they pointed only to me?
• Am I using my time and energy to build God’s kingdom, or just my own comfort?

Let us learn to serve with open hands and grateful hearts. Let us remember the source of every good gift. May we never become so full of our own plans that we forget the joy of living in God’s.

In the end, only one treasure lasts.
And that is the one stored in heaven. (BV)

Inspired by the homily of Deacon Richard (18th Sunday in Ordinary Time).