Never decide to slumber(SERMON/REFLECTION/HOMILY FOR SATURDAY OF THE 24TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME (ST. PADRE PIO) 23RD SEPTEMBER 2023

Never decide to slumber(SERMON/REFLECTION/HOMILY FOR SATURDAY OF THE 24TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME (ST. PADRE PIO) 23RD SEPTEMBER 2023

1Tim.6:13-16; Ps.100; Luke 8:4-15

Never decide to slumber

The types and intensity of distractions in the world today calls not only for awareness but also serious caution. Every day, one who is determined to make out something meaningful with his or her life, must contend with different forms of distractions. It is clear that to be successful in the real sense of the word, one must also learn how to deal with distractions. In line with this thought, the readings of today seek to boost our commitment to the Word of God amidst the distractions of the world. In the gospel reading, Jesus told a parable of how different types of distractions made healthy seeds fruitless. This teaches us that our competence will amount to nothing unless we have learnt determination and focus.

The seeds that fell on the rich soil represent those who hear the Word of God and continue faithfully in it. In the first reading, St. Paul explained what it means to continue faithfully in the Word of God – it means that will make judicious effort to keep the commandments unstained and free from reproach until the appearing of the Lord. This admonition contains two important elements. One, to keep the commandments unstained. This means that we must strive towards 100% faithfulness to the commandments. Sometimes, we are tempted to relax on our unfaithfulness to God’s Word on the ground that our level of faithfulness far exceeds our “little” unfaithfulness. It seems to us that God will focus so much on the good we have done and care not about the bad we chose to continue in. In as much as God understands that we constantly strive towards faithfulness, he does not permit us to relax on any level of unfaithfulness.

Two, St. Paul says: until the appearing of the Lord. This is a call to struggle till the end. Beloved, do not be tired. Yes, you have tried, but you cannot afford to give up now. Remember that for every race, award is given based on how it ended not how it started or how the process was. So, do not listen to that voice of distraction that suggests that you take a break from the efforts you make to be faithful. The devil remains an expert in turning a little slumber into a ditch of failure. The point is, never consciously decide to be distracted. Never think that you can strike a bargain with the devil for a little slumber. If the devil was ever a promise keeper, he would not have been a devil. Be warned!