Pure Gift of God

Homily for Thursday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary TIme

Both readings today invite us to reflect on God’s generosity and our response to it.

In the first reading, David sits before the Lord in awe. He recognizes that everything he has—his kingship, his future, even the promise of a lasting dynasty—is pure gift. David doesn’t boast. He doesn’t negotiate. He simply marvels: “Who am I, Lord God, that you have brought me this far?” Gratitude becomes his prayer, and humility becomes his posture.

Then Jesus, in the Gospel, speaks of a lamp that is meant to shine. God doesn’t give gifts to be hidden. He doesn’t pour grace into our lives so we can tuck it away. Jesus reminds us that the measure we use will be the measure we receive. In other words, the more generously we share what God has given us, the more room we make for God to give even more.

Put together, these readings form a simple spiritual rhythm:

Receive God’s gifts with humility, like David. Let those gifts shine, like the lamp Jesus describes. Give generously, trusting that God will not be outdone in generosity.

So today, we might ask ourselves:

What has God entrusted to me—faith, compassion, time, talents—that I’ve been keeping under a basket?

Where is God inviting me to shine more boldly, more lovingly, more freely?

If we respond with the same openness David showed, God will continue to build something in us—something far greater than we could build on our own.