WE ARE ONE BIG FAMILY. (Homily for September 20, 2016. Tuesday of the 25th Week in Ordinary Time.)

Bible Study:  Proverbs 21, 1 to 6, 10 to 13 and Luke 8, 19 to 21.


Since on Sunday, our readings have somehow given a particular bend to the act of charity especially to the poor and needy. Today’s first reading from the book of Proverbs declares: “He who closes his ears to the cry of the poor will himself cry out and not be heard.” Proverbs 21, 13.

This simply means that none of us is actually rich. We all are poor in one way or the other and are constantly in need of the help of others. That it is someone else’s turn today does not mean it might not be your turn tomorrow. I cannot say: “I don’t need you,” because even if I die today, I still need someone to pray for me. How much more if I am still alive in this small world?

Jesus was having a crusade one day and the whole arena was filled with people. Then came in Mary, his mother alongside his other siblings, they wanted to have a word with Jesus but instead of leaving the entire crowd to give his family members preferential treatment, Jesus declared: “My Mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.” In this way, Jesus elevated all Christians putting us at the same level with his family members so long as we obey his word.

Jesus would not look down on us. He treats us like his family despite our unworthiness. As his family members, Jesus does not expect us to look down on others no matter their condition in life. Do I belong to this happy family of Jesus? And if I actually belong, have I taken out time to reach out to my other siblings in this great family that is not restricted by language, race, colour, wealth or ethnicity? Why do I treat people differently forgetting the kind of family I belong to?

Let us Pray: Lord Jesus, help me live in a manner that truly represents me as a member of your family. Amen.

May the martyrs, Andrew Kim Taegon, Paul Chong Hassang and companions who offered their very lives for the spread of the faith in Korea intercede for us and give us courage to stand for our faith even in the face of ongoing persecution today. Amen.

Good evening. Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you.


Fr. Abu

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