“The Fullness of the Heart” a Reflection on the 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Life has a way of revealing who we truly are. The way we respond to challenges, the words we speak in frustration, the attitudes we carry when things do not go our way—these are all windows into our hearts. Today’s readings remind us that what overflows from within us—whether good or bad—reflects the disposition of our souls.

The Book of Sirach gives us a vivid image: “When a sieve is shaken, the husks appear.” Just as impurities surface when a sieve is shaken, so too do our true dispositions when life tests us. It is easy to show kindness and patience when all is well, but when we are under pressure, do we speak with gentleness or with bitterness? Do our words reflect a heart filled with grace, or do they reveal resentment, pride, or frustration?

Jesus expands on this teaching in today’s Gospel, reminding us that a tree is known by its fruit. If our hearts are filled with love, mercy, and humility, our actions and words will reflect that goodness. But if our hearts are cluttered with selfishness, anger, or judgment, then what we produce will reveal the truth about our inner lives. Jesus also warns against hypocrisy, urging us to address the “wooden beam” in our own eye before pointing out the “splinter” in another’s.

This is a lesson we all need to hear. In our daily lives, it is often easier to recognize the shortcomings of others than to examine our own hearts. We may be quick to correct a friend, a coworker, or even a family member, yet slow to acknowledge our own weaknesses. Jesus does not tell us to ignore the faults of others, but rather to begin with ourselves. Only when we allow God to heal and transform us can we effectively guide others with love instead of judgment.

St. Paul reminds us where this transformation begins: through Christ, who gives us victory over sin and death. We do not change by mere willpower alone but by surrendering our hearts to Him. When we allow God’s grace to work within us, we begin to bear good fruit—not by force, but by the natural outpouring of a heart formed by love.

So, how can we cultivate hearts that bear good fruit?

We could Examine our Heart Daily – At the end of each day, reflect on your words and actions. Did you speak in a way that uplifted or discouraged others? Did you react with patience or frustration? Recognizing our habits helps us become more mindful of the state of our hearts.

We could Remain Rooted in the Sacraments – The Eucharist nourishes us with Christ’s very life, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation clears away what prevents us from growing. If we desire to bear good fruit, we must remain connected to the source of grace.

And we could  Live with Humility and Mercy – When we truly recognize our own need for God’s mercy, we become more patient with others. Instead of judging, we seek to understand. Instead of condemning, we accompany others on their journey.

This week, let us ask God to purify our hearts, so that our words and actions may always reflect His love. May our lives bear good fruit—not for our own glory, but so that others may encounter Christ through us.

Have a great Week!  See you on Ash Wednesday!  Remember, pray for me as I will be praying for all of you!