MEDITATION/HOMILY FOR FRIDAY OF THE 29TH WEEK IN THE ORDINARY TIME , YEAR II

Homily for Friday of the 29th week in the ordinary time, year II

Ephesians 4:1-6; Luke 12:54-59

In the first reading of today St. Paul reminds us that our calling is a high calling. Hence, our words, thoughts and actions in all ramifications must be reflective of our vocations. He writes: "I therefore, a prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness..." (Eph 4:1-2). 

Friends in Christ, it is no news to say that we were called by God out of darkness into his wonderful light, into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ, into holiness and righteousness, into God's own glory, family, peace and excellence. Therefore, it is fitting that our attitude manifest in truth the Christian identity and vision. 

For St. Paul this attitude must collectively be demonstrated in the spirit of unity. He recommends, "Maintain the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace" (Eph 4:3).

Beloved in Christ, unity is an integral mark of the church. Jesus prayed, "That they may all be one as you, Father are in me and and I in you" (Jn 17:21). It is pertinent to note that this unity does not endorse ideas of religious indifference and relativism rather the church in all its capacity is a unity that embraces diversity. 

Dearest brothers and sister in Christ, the question of unity is addressed to us all. We must give a visible expression to the supreme mystery of unity which we have all been called: One Lord, One faith, One Spirit, One Baptism.

In the Gospel reading, Jesus questioned and chastised the people for their inability to interpret the messianic times and signs, notwithstanding, their knowledgeability of the appearance of the earth. He declared: "You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and sky, but why do you not know how to interpret the present time" (LK 12:56). It is apparent that the people during the time of Jesus missed the golden opportunity to know Jesus (his identity and mission). 

However, the question of Jesus remains relevant even in our present day. Via science and technology, man as a specialist, now has a very high degree of understanding of the workings of the universe: He can interpret signs of the time through history yet he fails to comprehend the redemptive work of God, he fails to comprehend the quality of the soul and spirit in human salvation, the spiritual affairs of his composite nature eludes man. He lacks the understanding of the interior mystery of his existence.

Dearest brothers and sisters in Christ, it is worthy to note that only in Christ Jesus through the Holy Spirit can man rediscover himself fully and by extension comprehend the decisive answers to the questions about human existence. Friends in Christ, we must have the ability to see beyond mere appearances, shadow and semblance into deeper perception of reality and substance. We need the true wisdom which proceeds from our encounter with Christ Jesus to be able to underscore the revelations of God about human person. 

May the Holy Spirit continually enlighten our minds and hearts to interpret rightly and genuinely the will and plans of God for us in life and our day-to-day activities. God bless us all. Amen

Have a joyful day!

Fr Remi Osj