The readings at Mass for this Sunday, the twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time, are a powerful warning against complacency and the dangers of seeking worldly comfort rather than eternal treasure. They encourage us to “compete well for the faith,” holding onto the promise of greatness that can only be found in relationship with Jesus.

As I was praying with these readings, the famous quote from Pope Benedict XVI came to mind: “The world offers you comfort, but you were not made for comfort. You were made for greatness.” Sitting with the readings and this quote convicted me to examine my own heart and ask the questions: When and where am I choosing comfort over greatness? In what parts of my life and heart do I choose complacency over obedience? Am I “competing well for the faith,” as Paul extols Timothy? Am I holding onto the promise of greatness only found in Christ, or have I laid it down for something comfortable here and now?

Perhaps your answers to these questions vary a bit depending on the day, the week, or the circumstances of the moment—I know mine do. Thankfully, we have an ever-merciful Savior who stands at the ready with the grace of another chance when we turn to Him and ask for forgiveness and mercy. As we head into the weekend, join me in asking the Holy Spirit for the graces of conviction, repentance, and boldness to step out of our comfort zone and into deeper relationship with Jesus, trusting in his promise that every “no” to comfort and “yes” to Him leads to eternal greatness.