Work to make Heaven. (HOMILY FOR SATURDAY OF THE TWENTY-FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME, YEAR II (AUGUST 31, 2024)

HOMILY FOR SATURDAY OF THE TWENTY-FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME, YEAR II (AUGUST 31, 2024)

1Cor.1:26-31; Ps.33; Matthew 25:14-30

Work to make Heaven

Someone once said that there are two categories of people who cannot make heaven: those who cannot love and those who cannot work. In the gospel, Jesus tells a parable about a man who entrusted different quantity of talents to his servants. I find this very striking! The master entrusted ALL servants with talents. Talents here are abilities which become productive and fruitful when put into use. God has not created anyone without a talent (an ability). It therefore means that no one is incapable of giving or contributing to the building of God’s kingdom; no one is incapable of working (at least in one way or the other). God has made us to be working agents; when we fail to work, we negate the purpose of our creation.

Does this say something to those who horde things for their generations yet unborn? God will never stop creating people with abilities; he will always create “working agents”. When we misuse the abilities God has given us by amassing wealth for our unborn generations when people are dying of poverty and hunger today, then we are hoping that our future generation will not be created in the image and likeness of God; that is, without the ability to work. Have you observed that some children who had everything worked out for them by their parents, grow up to be irresponsible? Work is key to our becoming fully human. No matter how comfortable life is for you, do not deprive your children or spouse from working. It is not a sign of love; but an infringement on one’s fundamental right.

In the parable, the servants where to reappear before the man and give to him both their talents and what they have made out of it. Beloved, know today that you ultimately answer to God. Do not allow yourself to be cajoled by that popular suicidal statement “Can’t you see your mate?”. It is good to challenge oneself but it’s never good to be in competition. God will access our output based on what he has given to us; not what he gave to another. All of us came into this world with different “Type” of examination question. My question one is your question twenty. When “A” is the right answer for me to a particular question, “C” is your right answer. Learn to mind your business but focusing on your gifts.

Stop giving excuses why you do not do what you ought to do. Every plant producing fruits had to first struggle with weeds and other adverse conditions. Commit yourself to using the ability God has given you. Turn every stumbling block to a stepping stone. Work hard and you will be preparing yourself for heaven. 

Remain blessed