Psalm Reflection: The Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle C

“He who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord.” - Psalms 15

St. Thomas More was born in 1478, and he was a brilliant scholar, lawyer, and statesman who rose to prominence as a trusted advisor to King Henry VIII. However, his unwavering loyalty to the Catholic Church and its teachings ultimately led to his martyrdom.

The pivotal moment in St. Thomas More’s life came when King Henry VIII sought to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon to marry Anne Boleyn. The Pope refused to grant the annulment, so King Henry VIII declared himself Supreme Head of the Church of England, breaking from Rome. St. Thomas More, a devout Catholic, could not in good conscience support the king’s actions, as they contradicted the Church’s teachings on the sanctity of marriage and papal authority.

Despite immense pressure, St. Thomas More resigned from his position as Lord Chancellor, choosing to live quietly rather than compromise his faith. However, when Henry demanded that all subjects swear an oath affirming his supremacy over the Church, More refused. His silence spoke volumes, as he would not betray his conscience or the truth of the Catholic faith.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” - Matthew 5:10

More was imprisoned in the Tower of London for over a year, enduring isolation and hardship. At his trial, he boldly defended the Church’s authority and his refusal to acknowledge King Henry VIII’s claims. He was convicted of treason and sentenced to death. On July 6, 1535, St. Thomas More was beheaded, declaring himself “the king’s good servant, but God’s first.”

“To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.” - Proverbs 21:3

Standing up for our faith and justice often requires great sacrifice. St. Thomas More’s example challenges us to remain steadfast in truth, trusting in God’s grace even when the cost is high. As the Psalmist reminds us this Sunday, “He who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord.” Although we may not live glorious lives on earth or be loved by everyone, when we pursue justice and truth, we will live in the presence of the Lord forever.

“He has told you, O mortal, what is good, and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” - Micah 6:8

Where do you feel called or challenged to stand up for your faith and your values with courage?

Are there moments in your life where you’ve had to choose between worldly success and staying true to your faith? How is the Lord calling you to do that now?

How can you cultivate a deeper trust in God’s grace to sustain you when pursuing justice and truth feels costly?

I am praying for you, please pray for me and my family, and I will see you in the Eucharist.

Matt

This reflection is based on the Responsorial Psalm for this Sunday, July 20th, 2025, the Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle C: Psalms 15:2-3, 3-4, 5.