REFLECTION/HOMILY FOR THURSDAY OF THE 33RD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME 23RD NOVEMBER 2023

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REFLECTION/HOMILY FOR THURSDAY OF THE 33RD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME 23RD NOVEMBER 2023

Macc.2:15-29; Ps.50; Luke 19:41-44

Work for True Peace!
Peace is one thing everyone needs and works towards. In fact, people will naturally avoid whatever will jeopardize their peace because without peace, nothing else will make sense to man. The readings of today enlighten us on what makes for true peace. It is one thing to desire peace, but it is another thing entirely to know how to attain true peace.

Peace means a state of serenity. But we will be mistaken to think that this serenity is achieved when one’s life is totally free of rancor. We may want to think that lack of problem is peace of mind. This understanding is not only incorrect, but also misleading. It is never possible that the human person is entirely free of every form of rancor. Little wonder it is often said: _wahala no dey finish_ . We will be peaceful not when troubles are absent but when we learn to differentiate between whom we should have issues with and with whom we should have peace.

True peace is attained when we are united with the Prince of Peace. This would mean that we will be at variance with the world. So, in true peace, there is compulsory war with worldliness. In the gospel reading of today, Jesus wept over Jerusalem because they had taken the wrong path in the search of peace. By making peace with the world, they declared themselves enemies of God. The result is condemnation; and there can be no true peace in condemnation.

In the first reading, Matthias understood very well the meaning of true peace and how to attain it. So, he was not afraid to disobey the king who was enforcing apostasy. Matthias did not underrate the ability of the king to punish or kill those who would disobey him. Yet, Matthias will not waver because there can be no true peace in compromising with the world. It is always best to be on the side of God even when it implies disagreeing with the “mighty”. Man may be mighty but only God is Almighty.

For this reason, the psalmist says: to one whose way is blameless, I will show the salvation of God. Beloved, the salvation of the Lord is bequeathed to those who are wise and courageous enough to follow the path of true peace in this world. Only on the side of God is victory assured.

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