The Endurance of goodness amidst the ridicule of the world (HOMILY FOR THE TENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARILY TIME, YEAR B (JUNE 09, 2024

HOMILY FOR THE TENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARILY TIME, YEAR B (JUNE 09, 2024)

Gen.3:9-15; Ps.130; 2Cor.4:13-5:1; Mark 3:20-35

The Endurance of goodness amidst the ridicule of the world

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

In our innate nature, we possess the ability to discern and admire the good. Yet, paradoxically, we often witness a tendency to belittle noble deeds, casting shadows over their inherent goodness. Today's readings, especially the first and the Gospel, reveal two profound truths: the immutable nature of goodness and the self-deprivation we inflict when we scorn what deserves our praise.

The narrative of creation, as continued in the first reading, affirms the intrinsic goodness of God's work. The beauty and order of creation, including the laws bestowed upon it, were meant for humanity's benefit. However, this divine order was challenged by the serpent's deception, which sought to ridicule God's commandment as a limitation rather than a protection. The serpent's lie to Eve—that disobedience would lead to divinity—was a distortion of the truth, aiming to undermine the sanctity of God's word.

When the moment of truth arrived, the consequences of Adam and Eve's actions became clear. Their avoidance of God post-transgression was not due to God's ignorance of their whereabouts but a manifestation of their own shame. Every act of ridicule, every perpetuated lie, ultimately leads to disgrace. The promises of the serpent proved hollow, and the divine gifts were forfeited.

This account serves as a stark reminder: we bear responsibility for our beliefs and actions, regardless of deception. The excuse of ignorance does not absolve us. Both the deceiver and the deceived face repercussions. Thus, we must exercise discernment and caution, not becoming conduits for falsehoods or gossip.

The Gospel also presents an instance of ridicule. Jesus' boundless compassion and unwavering dedication to the people were met with skepticism by the Scribes. Unable to fathom Jesus' divine love, they attributed his miraculous works to demonic possession. In doing so, they denied themselves the grace of the Holy Spirit, which Jesus declared unforgivable—not because God cannot forgive, but because their hearts were closed to the truth.

Let us take heed of this lesson. In our pursuit of goodness, we may face mockery and derision. Yet, we must persevere, for truth and goodness will ultimately triumph. Do not be disheartened by falsehoods; those who believe rumors without seeking the truth were never true allies. Instead, let us be champions of goodness, recognizing and celebrating it wherever it may arise. For it is through genuine appreciation and commendation that we can constructively critique and contribute to the spread of goodness. Amen.

God bless you all