The Path of God’s Commandment-HOMILY FOR THURSDAY OF THE 17th WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME 3RD AUGUST 2023

The Path of God’s Commandment-HOMILY FOR THURSDAY OF THE 17th WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME 3RD AUGUST 2023

Exodus 40:16-21.34-38; Ps.84; Matthew 13:47-53

The Path of God’s Commandment

In the first reading of today, Moses constructed and erected the tabernacle according to God’s specifications. Thereafter the two tables of the covenant were placed in the tabernacle; and it became for the Israelites, God’s very presence amongst them. it is interesting to note that the first thing the tabernacle did for them was to direct their movement as they journeyed on in the wilderness: “throughout their journeys, whenever the cloud was taken up from over the tabernacle, the sons of Israel would go onward; but if the cloud was not taken up, then they did not go onward…”

Just as the Israelites journeyed in the wilderness towards the Promised Land, so do we journey in this world as pilgrims towards the Promised Paradise. Like the Israelites, we need the commandments to guide us on our way. It is a journey of faith; and so, the journey must be guided by Faith in God. To have faith in God means to obey and live by His Word. God has given us the commandments as the spectrum leading us to the desired destination. It is only when we live by the commandments that we can land safely.

On this journey, so many other spectrums crave for our attention and want us to drop the law of the Lord. They promise us a smoother path where there will be no struggles; but they do not reveal to us that such path leads to destruction. Beloved, it is not just about the road; it is about where it leads to. No matter how enjoyable a path may be, if it leads to nowhere, then its enjoyment is of no value. But if a rough path brings us to our destined place, then it is worth the inconveniences. The end matters.

So, in the gospel reading, Jesus remarked that at the end of time, good will be separated from evil. This separation will bring an end to the scandal of evil that continues to bewilder our minds: why does evil exist? Why do bad things happen to good people? These and many more questions will be perfectly answered at the end of time. Until then, let us live by the commandments. If we are not living by God’s word, the end of time wherein evil will be separated from good, will also mean our destruction because evil will be destroyed forever.

Beloved, do not regret ever being good; do not be tired of doing the right thing; do not change your goodness on account of the ingratitude of others; do not be corrupted by the evil around you. Living by God’s commandments is surely a difficult path to tread; but it is the sure route to our salvation. Whatever cannot guarantee you heaven, should have no business directing how you live your life.