18TH MONDAY HOMILY ORDINARY TIME — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: ENDURING REJECTION
BY: Bishop Gerald M Musa
Salt is often overlooked in the kitchen until the food tastes bland. People tend to undervalue the one who has been seasoning their lives all along. Jesus endured rejection when he was not taken seriously in his homeland. He rightly said, “A prophet is not honoured in his own country.” Familiarity not only breeds contempt but also invites rejection.
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How often have we hesitated to do good for others because we fear rejection? We might want to help someone in a desperate situation, but we are afraid we might be turned down. We may wish to contribute an idea in a meeting, but we fear it will be rejected. We want to visit family or friends to make peace, but we worry the door might be slammed in our face. We desire to ask for forgiveness, but we fear our request will be refused and rejected by the offended party. The fear of rejection is often at the heart of our reluctance to perform many good deeds.
The parishes in Rome have a tradition of offering house blessings each year. When I was studying there, I took part in this annual event. Most families welcomed us warmly and generously; others outright rejected the blessing we offered free of charge. We experienced the joy of being accepted and the pain of being turned away. Blessed are those who do not expect constant acceptance, for they shall not be disappointed.
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