HOMILY OF 13TH TUESDAY OF ORDINARY TIME — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: The Danger of Looking Back And Turning to Jesus in Fear
BY: Fr Deotacious Chikontwe SMA
Gen 19:15-29; Psalm 25(26):2-3, 9-12; Matt 8:23-27
INTRODUCTION
The readings of today, highlight God’s power and care when we face fear, uncertainty, and challenges. The stories of Lot’s escape and Jesus calming the storm teach us to trust God, let go of our anxieties, and turn to Jesus during difficult times. These lessons offer valuable guidance for our own lives.
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FROM OUR FIRST READING
In the first reading today, we hear the story of Lot’s wife. As she and her family escape Sodom and Gomorrah, she looks back, a decision that seals her fate. Her reluctance to abandon her former life leads to her transformation into a pillar of salt. This serves as a stark reminder of the consequences when we resist God’s command to advance.
WHAT DO WE LEARN FROM THE FIRST READING
This reading highlights the crucial role of trusting God’s instructions, even when they involve difficult sacrifices. Often, God asks us to relinquish habits, relationships, or comforts that are detrimental to our well-being. While this process of “letting go” can be painful or frightening, clinging to the past prevents us from receiving God’s intended blessings for our lives. Essentially, forward progress in faith requires releasing what holds us back.
FROM OUR GOSPEL READING
Jesus Calms the Storm
In our Gospel reading for this morning, the disciples find themselves caught in a violent storm while at sea. Overwhelmed by terror, they fear for their lives and believe they are on the verge of perishing. In their desperation, they rouse Jesus, who is asleep, and plead for his intervention. Jesus responds by calming the tempestuous waters, then questions their lack of faith.
WHAT DO WE LEARN FROM OUR GOSPEL READING?
This story shows us that fear is natural, but we are never alone. When the storms of life overwhelm us, we should turn to Jesus. The disciples didn’t have the strength to calm the storm themselves, but they knew Jesus could help.
CONCLUSION
My dear friends in Christ, the story of Lot’s wife prompts us to consider whether we are holding onto things we should let go of, or if we’re hesitating when God asks us to advance. True trust in God means looking ahead to where he’s guiding us, rather than dwelling on the past.
We are encouraged today to ask for help when we are afraid. Life can feel overwhelming, but Jesus is always with us. Whether we are dealing with struggles at home, work, or in our faith, we can call on him. Like the disciples, we will find peace when we trust him.
The Lord Be With You
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