Homily for Saturday of the 14th week in Ordinary time year II July 13 2024

Homily for Saturday of the 14th week in Ordinary time year II July 13 2024

Isaiah 6:1-8; Psalm 93; Mathew 10:24-33

Jesus has been equipping His disciples with guidelines for effective evangelization. Today, He reveals the ultimate goal of these instructions. First, Jesus emphasizes that a disciple is never above the teacher; at most, the disciple can be like the teacher. This teaches us that only Jesus deserves our ultimate discipleship, as He alone is Almighty. If the Almighty is our limit, then we can be considered unlimited. Let us remain conscious of this divine affinity, especially in the face of persecution. It is worthwhile to endure suffering for bearing the name of Christ. I solemnly assure you, God will never forsake you.

Jesus further encourages transparency in adhering to the tenets of the gospel. We are transparent when our actions and inactions, whether public or private, are justifiable. If publicity threatens our clandestine actions, we may need to retrace our steps. Let us not be afraid to do the right thing and speak the truth. Many suffer when the truth is sacrificed on the altar of selfishness or fear. Jesus tells us not to fear those who oppose the truth. Today, some are blackmailed into sacrificing the truth. My dear, pray for the courage to reject such threats and stand by the truth. Lies never have the capacity to save; any security they promise is false. The truth, on the other hand, no matter how blunt, will always bring about its saving effects for those who cling to it.

Jesus concludes today’s gospel by urging us never to deny God. Denying God means losing faith in Him. If life has ever hit you hard despite your efforts to live uprightly, you will understand the temptation to feel abandoned by God. Nothing mocks faith more than the prosperity of the careless while the careful remain downtrodden. Jesus assures us that we are of more value than many sparrows. God will always take care of His own. Never regret or give up being a good person. The ingratitude of others should not deter your goodness. Ultimately, it is God who rewards good deeds.

God bless you all