HOMILY FOR FRIDAY OF THE 5TH WEEK OF EASTER
THEME: CHOSEN BY GOD
BY: Fr. Karabari Paul
HOMILY FOR FRIDAY MAY 20 2022
‘I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit’ (John 15:16).
It is important that we all know that the image we have of God can either affect our relationship with Him positively or negatively. Take a look at Jesus’ words to the disciples in the Gospel of today (John 15:9-17). It is a personal message of encouragement to us too. God has personally chosen each of us. He wants us specifically for Himself. He has a plan for our lives. He helps us to keep going when we think we can’t do what He asks. He encourages us when we have run out of steam. ‘The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble…the Lord holds them by the hand’ (Psalm 37:23-24). He wants us to be fruitful for Him.
But just because we have been chosen by God doesn’t mean we can go off and do our own thing. When we have been chosen and appointed by God, we can be sure of our position in Christ, even if our condition isn’t perfect. He knows that it will help us understand that we are dependent on His love, and helps us keep ourselves deeply rooted in Him. He has an assignment for each of us, and He wants to see us do our best in that assignment. And when we realise that, nothing can stop us .
Jesus said, ‘You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain.’ How you begin a relationship is important. All parties need to feel secure in order for it to go well.
Knowing you have been ‘chosen and appointed’ by God gives you confidence. It means you are accepted; you don’t have to campaign to get elected. If you think walking to a church altar to commit your life to Christ means you chose God, think again! God has chosen us for two reasons: to bless you, and to make you a blessing to others. To serve Him and to be happy with Him forever (see Genesis 12:2). Thus, He chosen us to be fruitful. You didn’t choose God, He chosen you. And whoever He calls, He equips. All you need to do is be open and responsive. ‘Give yourselves completely…be tools in the hands of God, to be used for his good purposes’ (Romans 6: 13). GOD IS STILL ON THE THRONE. May God heal our country Nigeria, bless and protect us all through Christ Our Lord Amen. Please, stay safe. Good morning.
Fr. Karabari Paul