DAILY HOMILIES

Dear friends, let us examine our hearts. Are there promises you made to God when things were tough for you, yet long after God heard your prayer, you refused to fulfil your part? Do you even remember God when things are going well for you? Are you currently facing a storm? Don’t worry; storms do not last forever. Keep telling yourself, “This too shall pass.” Tough times don’t last, but tough people do.

As Abraham’s faith was demonstrated in action, Joseph, through his obedience, showed great faith in God. We cannot claim to have faith when we refuse to obey God’s instructions. Trust goes with obedience. Joseph said nothing to the Angel, but his actions spoke louder than anything he might have said. Some of us are vocal in professing our faith but remain silent when it comes to obeying God’s commands.

Like Jesus Christ, we all have two names: one that appears on our certificates and one that defines who we are. Although the names we bear may vary, the kind of life we live must reflect our real identity—Christlike, children of God. People should not only call us Christians; they must also see Christ in us.

Zechariah prayed for many years for a child and did not get an answer. When the answer came, Zachariah forgot what he had been praying for. He felt that God had decided not to grant him any child. His doubt was evident to the Angel. What is it that I have been praying for? Have I reached a point of doubt? This reading should give me a rethink. God knows what He is doing.

Joseph’s role in the life of Jesus demonstrates that every child needs a father who provides, protects, and trains. Today is another day to say a big thank you to our Fathers: the men who were there for us from the cradle, the men who bore the harsh heat of the sun and worked all day just to put food on our tables, the men who were our first teachers in the faith, the men who disciplined us when we went astray. Fathers are not necessarily biological. Are you a Father? What kind of Father are you?

One thing we notice in today’s first reading is that among the twelve sons of Jacob, Judah received the greatest blessing, even though he was not the eldest. Judah’s blessing even included a clause stating that his brothers would bow and sing his praises.

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus offered a vivid analogy for these religious leaders. They make everyone believe they are close to God, but in reality, they mounted the most tremendous opposition to God. They are like the first son who said “Yes” to his father, but eventually, his actions betrayed his words. Do my actions betray my promises to God?

The chief priests and Pharisees doubted Jesus, but as today’s first reading shows, Jesus is truly the Messiah. Truth does not force itself on anyone; it does not depend on how we feel about what we choose to accept. Truth is truth, regardless of whatever anyone thinks. Yes, Jesus is God.

Just because you are unhappy with many aspects of your life doesn’t mean God hasn’t helped you. The fact that not all your prayers are answered doesn’t imply that God is weak or no longer exists. Look around you; God is still performing great and mighty works for many. Maybe it’s not yet your turn, or perhaps your problems are blessings in disguise; whatever the case, don’t lose hope in God.

Why, then, did Jesus say that John the Baptist is Elijah that is to come? 1) To show that the prophecy about the return of Elijah has come to pass. This implies that Jesus is truly the Messiah. 2) To emphasise (praise) John the Baptist’s excellence. Note that Jesus’s words, at this point, were a funeral oration for John the Baptist, who had just been beheaded. 3) To teach us that we remain alive as long as people continue our good works. Elijah died, yet he was alive in John the Baptist.

Our world continues to experience the effects of individual and collective sinfulness. Today, the devil tries to make us believe God’s commandments are outdated, oppressive, or impossible to follow. Don’t fall for these lies. Following God’s commandments always benefits you. Societal values may have changed, but God’s words will never change. A sin remains a sin no matter how society describes it. The peace and happiness you seek can only come from obeying God. The devil has nothing good to offer.

Are you being threatened with death for doing the right thing? Reflect on God’s words in today’s First reading: “Fear not, I will help you.” (Isaiah 41:13). Like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who said to the king: “Even if our God does not save us, we will not bow to your statue.” Yes, even if God decides not to prevent your death (as in the case of John the Baptist), be assured of a better life in heaven. Cast away your fears.