HOMILY FOR WEDNESDAY OF THE 28TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR II
THEME: OBEDIENCE TO THE WILL OF GOD.
BY: Fr. Francis Onwunali.
HOMILY FOR WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 12 2022
“The essence of God’s commandments is love – love of the supreme good – God Himself and love of neighbour who is made in the image and likeness of God. God’s love which is unconditional is wholly directed towards the good of others. True love, then, must embrace and lift the burden of others”.
In line with the words of Paul to the Galatians (Gal 5: 18-25), we are called to live in the Spirit, bearing fruits of selflessness and concern for others. “You cannot belong to Christ unless you crucify all self-indulgent passions and desires”. Do I live not for myself but others?
The Pharisees and Scribes who Jesus criticizes today in the gospel (Luke 11: 42-46) lived a self-centred life devoid of care for those who they lead. Our words and beliefs should correspond with our actions. Obedience to the will of God – loving God and our neighbour- is more important than strict religious observance that does not permeate nor transform the heart.
Dear friends, it is by our fruits that we shall be identified. We are called to live by the Spirit and not by the flesh so that we can bear fruits that will last: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Can your character stand integrity test?
I pray as we journey in life today, we will be filled with the Holy Spirit for strength and vitality to bear good and rich harvest. As the Psalmist says: may you be like tree planted near running waters; may you bear fruits in due season and your leaves never fade; may all you do prosper (Ps. 1: 3). Have a care-full day!