Homily for Wednesday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle I
Theme: Gratitude with mercy
By: Fr Francis Onwunali
Homily for Wednesday November 10 2021
MEMORIAL OF ST. LEO THE GREAT
Today, the Church celebrates the memorial of St. Leo the great, Doctor of the Church. According to St. Leo, “virtue is nothing without the trial of temptation, for there is no conflict without an enemy, no victory without strike.” Therefore, we are to remain resolute in living out the Christian virtues. There are times in life when adversity forces people to drop their differences, barriers, or to forget their prejudices to pursue a common goal.
In the gospel narrative (Luke 17: 11-19) we experience two hostile people, a Samaritan leper in the midst of nine Jewish lepers, joined together seeking for God’s mercy. As compassion empathizes with the sufferer, mercy goes beyond to remove the suffering. Jesus showed them mercy and asked them to go to the priest who alone can declare them clean and reintegrate them back to the community. How ready are you to let go of your differences for the good of all?
In the first reading (Wis. 6: 1-11), those in authority, the leaders, are reminded that they will be held accountable by God for how they use the power they are given. They are to care for the lowly entrusted to their care since we are all equal and children of God.
Dear friends, the life God has given to us places us in a position to care for one another. We all need mercy in our life, and should respond in gratitude by showing mercy to others. How will you account for the moments of grace you missed to show mercy? “The Lord Himself “will probe your acts and scrutinise your intentions.”
I pray as we journey in life today, we will learn to always live in an atmosphere of thanksgiving like the Samaritan leper who returned to Jesus to give thanks. Let us give thanks by showing mercy as God has shown mercy to us. Whose suffering do I need to assist in relieving today? Have a mercy-full day!
Fr Francis Onwunali