Sometimes we think that doing God’s will is about simply bearing the cross and giving up good things in this life. However, when we do God’s will, it often leads to unexpected joy -- a greater joy than we would have imagined.

“Give your servant, therefore, an understanding heart

to judge your people and to distinguish right from wrong.”

“We know that all things work for good for those who love God,

who are called according to his purpose.”

“The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field,

which a person finds and hides again,

and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”

“When he finds a pearl of great price,

he goes and sells all that he has and buys it.”

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net thrown into the sea,

which collects fish of every kind.”

It takes a level of humility to believe that doing God’s will ultimately brings us the greatest joy. Often, we equate God’s will with bearing the cross or giving up a good.

For example, some people who struggle with addictions may believe they need whatever they are addicted to in order to survive, but once they are able to give that up, often with professional help, they find themselves so much more joyful and free.

We often create our own “yokes” or problems that are not what God intends for us. We need to ask Him what we need; sometimes, it’s not apparent what we need to find the joy that God intends for us.

The net in this week’s gospel is cast to collect everything: different fishes and other sea debris. It’s not our place to sort it out. God will do that in the end. Although we can judge actions as right or wrong, it is not our place to judge intentions or souls.

Even if we do not verbally share judgments, if we harbor them in our hearts, it still affects our relationships with others. We must recognize how little we understand about others’ intentions.

Ask yourself, “What do I have to give up to do God’s will?” Think about what comes to mind, and remember it can be an objectively good thing. Then, ask “Will giving that up bring me more joy? More freedom? More peace?”