HOMILY OF 1ST THURSDAY OF 1ST WEEK OF LENT — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: HOW TO TURN TO GOD WITH FAITH AND PERSEVERANCE
BY: Fr Deotacious Chikontwe SMA
Esther 14:1, 3-4, 11, 13-14; Matthew 7:7-12
INTRODUCTION
On Thursday of the 1st Week of Lent, the readings invite us to reflect on our relationship with God in times of need.
FROM OUR FIRST READING
Esther’s story in our first reading, teaches us the importance of trusting God in moments of fear and uncertainty. When Esther faced a great danger, she turned to God in prayer, asking for His help. She did not know how God would save her, but she trusted that He would listen and respond. This trust gave her the courage to act, even when she was afraid.
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WHAT DO WE LEARN FROM OUR FIRST READING ?
We all face times when we feel helpless or overwhelmed. Like Esther, we may not see a clear way out of our problems. But this day reminds us that God is always present, even in our darkest moments. We can turn to Him in prayer, confident that He hears us and will provide the help we need.
Trusting God does not mean that our problems will disappear instantly, but it gives us the strength to face them with faith. Esther’s story shows us that God listens to the prayers of His people and responds in His own way.
FROM OUR GOSPEL READING
Our gospel reading, invites us to reflect on Jesus’ teaching about asking, seeking, and knocking. Jesus encourages us to approach God with confidence, knowing that He cares about our needs. This is not just about asking for material things, but about trusting God to guide and support us in every part of our lives.
WHAT DO WE LEARN FROM OUR GOSPEL READING?
Sometimes, we hesitate to ask God for help, thinking our needs are too small or unimportant. But Jesus assures us that God is a loving Father who wants to give good things to His children. This day, reminds us that we should never be afraid to ask God for what we need, whether it’s strength, wisdom, or comfort in difficult times.
CONCLUSION
When we knock, it means we actively seek God’s presence in our lives, just as we would knock on a door, expecting it to open. God promises to respond to those who ask, seek, and knock. As we reflect on these readings, we can be encouraged to deepen our trust in God and turn to Him with confidence, knowing that He always listens.
The Lord be with You!
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