HOMILY FOR THE 1ST MONDAY OF LENT — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: “BE HOLY, FOR I, THE LORD OUR GOD, AM HOLY.”
BY: Bishop Anthony Ewherido
Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18; Matthew 25:31-46
Even as the Lord renews the call to holiness in today’s first reading and as we endeavor to respond by a greater commitment to prayer and pious practices, we are reminded of the practical implications of that call and response.
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In that reading, our response to that call is detailed in our relationship with others, noting that we must not do anything that offends the person and dignity of others. The reading ends by urging us as follows: “love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord.” In the last judgment scene simulated in the gospel, the Lord Jesus indicates that we would have no part with him if we fail to love, especially the underprivileged and the needy. The hungry, thirsty, homeless, imprisoned, naked and sick were particularly mentioned. The Lord is in solidarity with them, truly and fully, and neglect of them is neglect of the Lord himself. These are injunctions that are given to us by God and the Lord Jesus and not just human moral teachings. To refuse to take them seriously is to reject God. Their observance is not meant for the Lenten season only. To be Godlike in our piety and to love as we have been commanded is a way of life; to be otherwise is to be ungodly. These categories of people and many more stare at us daily, hoping for relief. No matter how little, let us always lend a helping hand. In addition to and beyond money and material resources, there are so many ways of helping these needy people. Respect, consideration, a smile, courtesy, a kind word, and the rebuke of those who disrespect them are all ways that we can help others. Also important is the need to teach our children and young people how to treat others right, especially those on the margins of society. Remember always: “but for God, any one of us could be in their place.” If you are not there, God is calling on you to take care of those who have found themselves there.
Lord, teach me to love, respect and provide for you in the poor, needy and oppressed of our communities. Amen.
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