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

“If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” - Psalms 90

Saint Mary of Egypt was born in the 4th century and lived a life of extreme sinfulness, particularly as a prostitute. She often sought to lead others into sin, even targeting pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem.

Her life changed dramatically when she attempted to enter the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. A mysterious force prevented her from crossing the threshold, and in that moment, she was struck by the weight of her sins. Feeling the presence of God, she prayed before an icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, begging for forgiveness and vowing to change her life. She heard God’s call to repentance and responded wholeheartedly. She was able to enter the Church, and a chapel there is named after her to this day.

After her conversion, Mary crossed the Jordan River and lived as a hermit in the desert for nearly 50 years. She devoted herself to prayer, fasting, and penance, relying entirely on God’s grace. Her story became known through a monk named Zosimas, who encountered her in the desert. She shared her life story with him, and he witnessed her deep holiness.

St. Mary of Egypt had a heart that was hardened by sin, but she experienced the power of God in a way that softened her heart and transformed her into a Saint. The same can be true for you and I. Mary did not audibly hear God’s voice, because God can work and speak to us in a multitude of ways. God is trying to speak to you every day through Scripture and silence, signs, and strangers. 

Before his conversion, St. Augustine found himself in a garden, tormented by his sins and longing for truth. Suddenly he heard a child’s voice chanting, “Take and read, take and read.” He interpreted it as a divine command, opened the Scriptures and read Romans 13:13-14: 

“Let us conduct ourselves properly as in the day, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh.” 

The words pierced his heart, and in that moment, he resolved to turn away from his sinful life and fully surrender to God.

God often speaks to us in unexpected ways, even through the simplicity of a child’s voice. His Word has the power to transform our hearts. We cannot predict how or when the Lord will speak, but we can trust that He is always trying to speak to us, and we can train our hearts to always be listening.

This week, be open to God’s call, no matter where or how it comes. Be honest with the ways that your heart may have become hardened by sin, loss, suffering or doubt. Ask God for clarity in the things you are searching for and discerning. Be willing to admit when you have done wrong and do not run away from the consequences of your decisions. Be willing for Him to reveal to you where you are wrong or misled, let yourself be corrected and led to a place of deeper freedom and understanding. 

Stubbornness, pride, and rigidity are symptoms of a hardened heart. Listen for God’s voice to call out those postures and attitudes in your life so that you can be transformed into the Saint He created you to be.

In what areas of your life do you feel your heart may have become hardened, whether through sin, suffering, or pride? How can you invite God to soften those areas?

How do you typically listen for God’s voice in your daily life? Are there ways you can create more space for Him to speak, such as through Scripture, silence, or prayer?

Are there specific attitudes or behaviors—like stubbornness or rigidity—that might be preventing you from fully surrendering to God’s will? How can you work to let go of those barriers?

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, August 3rd, 2025, the Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time - Cycle C: Psalms 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14 and 17.