(Homily for March 14, 2017).
Very often, in our attempt to practice our Christian faith, we
become more of actors on stage than genuine worshippers.
When our ego takes charge of us, we try to control other people
by doing everything possible to give them a saintly impression of ourselves
instead of doing what is pleasing to God.
This was the problem of the Pharisees and it remains our problem
even to this day.
The prophet Isaiah speaks to us in very sharp terms; “Wash
yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your doing from before my
eyes, learn to do good, seek justice, correct oppression, defend the
fatherless, plead for the widow…”
Somehow, Isaiah re-echoes the words of Ezekiel in our readings a
few days ago. When one repents and changes his ways, everything he has done in
the past will be forgotten.
“Come now, let’s reason together, though your sins are like
scarlet, they shall be white as snow.”
And just as Abraham was richly blessed for his obedience and
willingness to sacrifice his Son Isaac, whom he loved so much, we too are
called to be obedient to God and be willing to sacrifice all those things we
love too much.
“If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the
land.” This is what lent is all about; a time to reflect; a time to re-examine;
a time to change!
What are those things in my life that I know God is not proud
of? What are those things that make me resemble the people of Sodom and
Gomorrah?
Am I like the Pharisees Jesus condemned for their hypocrisy? Am
I a proud person who loves to be called “Father,” “Presido,” “Worthy,” “Spiritual,”
etc.
Do I love being greeted by persons in public? Do I care more
about what people think than about what God thinks?
Let us Pray: Lord Jesus, show me the path of true holiness. Amen.
Be Happy.
Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Tuesday of the 2nd week of Lent. Bible
Study: Isaiah 1:10,16-20 and Matthew 23:1-12).
Fr. Abu.
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