HOMILY OF 1ST MONDAY IN ORDINARY TIME — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: GOD MEETS US WHERE WE ARE
BY: Fr Deotacious Chikontwe SMA
1 Sam. 1:1-8, Ps. 116:12-19. Mark 1:14-20
Introduction
Today, we transition from the celebratory season of Christmas into the “Ordinary” time of the Church. But as our readings suggest, “ordinary” does not mean “uneventful.” It is precisely in the rhythm of our daily lives—our struggles, our work, and our families—that God speaks.
1. Bringing Our Sadness to God
In the first reading, we meet a woman named Hannah. She is very unhappy because she wants a child but cannot have one. Even though her husband loves her, she feels empty and alone. She is crying and cannot eat.
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Hannah shows us that it is okay to be honest with God. We don’t have to pretend to be happy when we are hurting. God is not just the God of “good times.” He is the God who stays with us when our hearts are heavy.
The Lesson
If you are carrying a “heavy heart” today, know that God sees you. He is ready to listen.
2. Hearing Jesus Call Us
In the Gospel, Jesus starts his work. He walks by the sea and sees fishermen doing their jobs. He tells them: “The Kingdom of God is near. Follow me.”
Something amazing happens. These men—Simon, Andrew, James, and John—don’t say “maybe later” or “let me finish my work first.” The Bible says they followed him immediately.
• They left their nets (their money and jobs).
• They left their boats (their comfort).
• They followed Jesus because they knew he offered something better than fish.
3. What is God Saying to You?
These two stories show us two sides of life:
• Hannah represents our private struggles and our prayers for help.
• The Disciples represent our call to take action and follow Jesus.
Jesus comes to us in our “ordinary” moments—while we are working, while we are cooking, or even while we are crying. He doesn’t wait for us to be perfect. He calls us right now, right where we are.
Following Jesus might mean leaving behind a bad habit, a grudge we are holding, or a fear that keeps us from being kind. When he calls, don’t wait.
A Simple Prayer
Lord, thank you for being with me in my happy times and my sad times. Help me to hear Your voice today and give me the courage to follow You immediately.
Amen
Peace be with You !
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