St. Paul observed that he had no one like Timothy, for Timothy was genuinely interested in what concerned God's people (Phil 2:20). Other disciples were seeking their own interests instead of Jesus' interests (Phil 2:21). Timothy was a man possessed of great love, because love does not seek its own interests (1 Cor 13:5).

That is what happens in a vocation. People with consecrated religious and lay single vocations spend their lives serving God and listening to Him. Such people strive to find out God's interests, serve Him, and carry out His wishes and interests.

A married person shows their true love in a similar manner. A loving husband or wife is occupied with pleasing his or her spouse (1 Cor 7:33-34). They discover their spouse's interests and act for their welfare. Thus, the married person works toward finding God's interests by building a civilization of love.

We are like banks in which God deposits His treasures. God expects to get a return — with interest (Mt 25:27). This has a double meaning: God wants to get an increased yield from our life. He also wants us to be interested in His interests and work to carry them out.

Will this Scripture passage be fulfilled in you today? (see Lk 4:21) Will you seek the interests of God and His people?

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, September 13, 2012

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