HOMILY FOR THURSDAY OF THE 16TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME CYCLE II
THEME: RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
BY: Fr. Francis Onwunali
HOMILY FOR THURSDAY JULY 21 2022
The mysteries and awesomeness of God are understood when we remain in constant and active relationship with God.
Mysterion is not something incomprehensible but something inexhaustible. So the deeper we are in relationship with God, the more we understand God as He reveals Himself. The readings of today highlight this relationship status.
In the first reading (Jer 2: 1-3, 7-8, 12-13), the Prophet Jeremiah berated the Chosen People who have taken their relationship with God, their living-water, for granted and resorted to “dig cisterns for themselves, leaky cisterns that hold no water.” He calls for a change of heart. What has been your response to God’s benevolence in your life?
In the gospel (Matt 13: 10-17), Jesus reminds His disciples that the mysteries of the Kingdom are revealed to those who are open to faith in the Eternal Son of God, but those who are not open to listen to the word of Truth will always remain in confusion.
Dear friends, God can only reveal the secrets of His Kingdom to the humble and trusting person who acknowledges their need for God and for His truth. God’s word can only take root in a receptive heart that is ready to believe and willing to submit to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Indifference, skepticism and disbelief can only lead further into darkness.
I pray as we journey in life today, we will be conscious of the devastating effect of an ungrateful heart, and strive not to take God’s gift of Himself for granted. May we not harden our hearts, but listen to the voice of the Lord (Ps. 95:8), who is the source of our life, and in whose light we see light (Ps 36: 11). May we not be like the Scribes and Pharisees “who hear but not understand, who see but not perceive.” Have a revelation-full day!
Fr. Francis Onwunali