HOMILY OF 11TH MONDAY OF ORDINARY TIME — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP IN SERVICE OF OTHERS
BY: Fr Francis Onwunali
2 Corinthians 6:1-10, Ps. 98:1-4, Matthew 5:38-42
The readings of today present to us the theme of “the cost of discipleship in service of others.”
In the gospel (Matt 5: 38-42), Jesus addresses the retributive justice of the Old Law- eye for eye, tooth for tooth. Jesus rather admonishes His disciples not simply to act justly and fairly but to act with compassion and love, especially to those who offend or mistreat them. Jesus gives a new law based on grace, love, and freedom. The law of grace is treating others not as they deserve but as God wishes them to be treated – with loving kindness and mercy.
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In the first reading (2 Cor 6: 1-10), St. Paul appeals to the Corinthians as co-workers in the Lord, not to neglect the grace of God they have received. In the course of true discipleship, we may be misunderstood, mistreated, or even persecuted, but revenge should not be the way out. Rather, we draw strength from God’s grace to be patient in the face of suffering and provocation.
Dear friends, in the course of our service to others, sometimes we have experienced hurt, betrayal, backstabbing, etc., but the joy of the Good News of salvation has been our comfort. This can only be possible if we acknowledge that God has first been merciful and forgiven us in Christ. So, how do you respond when you feel you have been insulted or taken advantage of?
I pray as we journey in life today, we will draw strength from God’s abundant grace so as not to be embittered or revengeful in our action towards others, but to embrace the power and freedom of Christ’s redeeming love and mercy. “With God, all things are possible” (Matt 19:26). Have a mercy and compassion-full day!
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