HOMILY OF 17TH SUNDAY ORDINARY TIME — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: THE HIDDEN TREASURE AND THE PRECIOUS PEARL!
BY: Fr. Casmir Nkamuke
1 Kg 3:5-12, Rom 8:28-30, Matt 13:44-52
In the last two Sundays, Jesus has been using different parables to explain the reign of God. Today’s gospel concludes Matthew’s section on kingdom parables with three analogies: The hidden treasure, the precious pearl, and the dragnet. Through these parables, we are reminded of the invaluable character of God´s kingdom and warned of the judgment of God at his appointed time where the righteous will be separated from the sinners.
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In the first reading, Solomon begs God not for fame, not for conquest in battle, not for the expansion of his territory, not for wealth, rather for understanding to discern good and evil. This was least expected of a king who should rather prefer fame and wealth. Solomon was, however, reasonable to know that wisdom is more precious and more treasurable than wealth and fame. Because of his right decision, God blessed him, not only with wisdom, but also with wealth and fame. Through this, we learn that God´s wisdom not only surpasses all our material cravings but is also essential in obtaining and effectively managing all earthly riches and power.
St. Paul reminds us that all things work for good for those who love God and who he has called according to his purpose. This may sound contradictory. The lot of most servants of God are failures, trials, tribulations, persecutions, and rejection. When, however, we take note that the purpose which God created us is to know Him, love Him, serve Him in this world, and live with Him eternally in the world to come, we will gladly see these trial and obstacles as stepping stones enroute God’s plans for us which is to enjoy his kingdom eternally.
In the gospel, Christ through his parables teaches us that detachment from the world is necessary for attachment to the reign of God. It matters a little how we got to know about God’s kingdom, some of us were lucky enough to be initiated into God’s kingdom through infant baptism, for others it is after a thorough search. The important factor is our response to the kingdom. If we commit ourselves totally to doing God’s will and allowing God’s will to manifest in us, we will reap the fruits of our toil by enjoying the fulness of life here and hereafter. However, if we attach ourselves so much to the things of the world, we will lose God’s reign when God sieves the good from the bad on the judgment day.
Beloved in Christ, God gives us an opportunity today to seek his treasure and pearl. On the contrary, many have abandoned the search for God´s kingdom and its righteousness in search for material satisfaction. No matter how secure and famous these possessions make one feel, they do not guarantee us true happiness nor eternal union with God. Rather, when we seek first the kingdom of God and all its righteousness, everything, including wealth and fame will be added to us as was added to Solomon.
May God give us the wisdom and insight to seek him and devote ourselves totally to doing his will. May he bless us and guide us, and may his love be upon us as we place all our trust in him.
Happy Sunday!
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