23RD WEDNESDAY HOMILY IN ORDINARY TIME — YEAR B
HOMILY THEME: LASTING JOY COMES FROM DOING GOD’S WILL
BY: Fr Isaac Awe
1 Cor 7:25-31, Psalm 44(45):11-12, 14-17; Luke 6:20-26
Thomas Aquinas said: No person can live without joy. That is why someone deprived of spiritual joy goes after carnal pleasures.
What is the true source of joy and happiness that so many find elusive? Jesus begins his teaching on the way of the kingdom of heaven by addressing the issue of where true happiness is found. The word beatitude literally means happiness or blessedness. Jesus’ way of happiness, however, demands a transformation from within — a conversion of heart and mind which can only come about through the gift of the Holy Spirit. How can one possibly find happiness in poverty, hunger, mourning, and persecution? If we want to be filled with the joy and happiness of heaven, then we must empty ourselves of all that would shut God out of our hearts. Poverty of spirit finds ample room and joy in possessing God alone as the greatest treasure possible. Hunger of the spirit seeks nourishment and strength in God’s word and Spirit.
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Sorrow and mourning over wasted life and sin leads to joyful freedom from the burden of guilt and oppression. God reveals to the humble of heart the true source of abundant life and happiness. Jesus promises his disciples that the joys of heaven will more than compensate for the troubles and hardships they can expect in this world. Do we know the joy and happiness of hungering and thirsting for God alone?
PRAYER: Lord, increase our hunger for you and show us the way that leads to everlasting happiness and peace. May we desire you above all else and find perfect joy in doing your will. Amen.
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