Today’s gospel made me think of my parents. I often receive meaningful gifts from them, just like Jesus suggests in his teachings. Most recently, they have given me: a visit from out of town when I truly needed it, a rosary to pray every night before bed, and their support and understanding as I continue my own faith journey.

However, these gifts are often given without me having to ask. I think in a similar way, through God’s love, God is always granting us gifts without our asking. The key to receiving these gifts is in accepting them. These are the instructions Jesus gives us in today’s passage. To “ask, search, and knock” are the daily actions we must take in order to identify and accept the gifts of Christ.

But what should we ask for? Often, I am tempted to ask for a certain college football team to win a game, or other things of this nature. However, I find that the greatest peace comes when I ask for guidance and support to follow the path God has set for me, and when I ask for forgiveness when I feel I’ve strayed from this path.

Yet, at times I feel my faith and the path laid before me are at an impasse. In these moments I wonder what I should ask for from God. Guidance and support? Yes. But sometimes I feel like I need a roadblock removed as well. Asking for God to simplify things can sometimes cause feelings of guilt, but I remind myself that God rejoices when we ask for love and support. However, I must remember that asking is only the first step! I must search and knock as well in order to truly accept the gifts God is sending me in my moments of need.