Thanks for the Word of God

 

Giving thanks for the Word of God is something we do almost without thinking at every celebration of the Eucharist. When the reader proclaims, “The Word of the Lord,” we answer, “Thanks be to God.” When the priest announces the Gospel, we respond, “Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.”

Listening attentively to the Word places us in a posture of openness to the truth that the Word reveals. Jesus tells us, 

“If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” (John 8:31-21).

The Word not only sets us free—it is our very life. Each time the Gospel is proclaimed, Christ speaks again: 

“The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life” (John 6:63). And He adds, “I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace.” (John 16:33).

Truth, freedom, life, and peace—these are His gifts. And He does not stop there. He also gives us joy: 

“I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete” (John 15:11). 

Along with joy come rest, forgiveness, His abiding presence, healing, and light.

We have every reason to say, “Thanks be to God,” for God is the giver of every good gift.