ARE YOU RESTLESS AND DESIRE PEACE? HOMILY FOR THURSDAY OF THE 15TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

ARE YOU RESTLESS AND DESIRE PEACE?

HOMILY FOR THURSDAY OF THE 15TH WEEK IN THE ORDINARY TIME

Isaiah 26:7-9-12:16-19; Matthew 11: 28-30

Good morning dearest brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, 

St. Augustine, a renowned theologian and doctor of the Church, in his 'confessions' said: “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you”. This is a famous phrase that deeply echoes the term 'restlessness' as the desire to be filled and fulfilled; the desire to seek peace and strength; the desire to seek serenity and grace etc. Sometimes in life, we are overwhelmed by weariness, anxiety, worry, troubles, difficulties, drawbacks, etc. We are burdened, we are heavy laden, we are pressed down to the earth by sorrow and Sin. We are plunged into a state of despair and frustration. It feels as if the whole world is against us as if we have lost it all. Friends in Christ, the words of Jesus in this Gospel of Matthew addresses us: “Come to me, all you that are weary and carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” (Mt 11:28). 

Restlessness is not only physical but also spiritual. Sin is the greatest cause of our spiritual restlessness. This is because it truncates our communion with God (Jesus, the prince of peace). It separates us from the channel of grace and resuscitation of strength and energy. Consequently, quickening the death of the soul and the body. 

Beloved in Christ, Jesus grants us the invitation to approach him in the sacrament of penance, the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, the Sacrament of the anointing of the sick, visit of the Blessed Sacrament etc. That He will give us rest. The rest which the world cannot give. Note very well that True and lasting rest can only be found in God, both here on earth and forever in heaven. 

Child of God, I do not know what troubles your heart as of now, what's responsible for your sleepless nights, and what frightens your innermost peace. All I know is that the resolution to your condition lies in the hands of Jesus. Go to Jesus the great physician and teacher, and he will heal you and guide you on the path of peace and health.

May the graces of God be upon you to strengthen you, sustain and uphold you over the darts of the evil one, and above all grant you the innermost peace and serenity of the soul, spirit and body. Through Christ our Lord. Amen

Have a peaceful day!

Fr Remi osj