DAILY HOMILIES #sirach

Jesus looked at his disciples and said, “How hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God. It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” The question is: “What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and suffers the loss of his soul?”

What does it mean to receive God’s kingdom like a child? It means having an open heart and being willing to learn and accept correction. It means trusting God entirely even when one does not understand Him. It means fearing God and doing everything possible to avoid sin. Today, Jesus wants us to recover our childlike spirit. Unless we revive our dead consciences, we cannot enter heaven.

Give a million dollars to a fool; they will be poor in one year. Give one dollar to a wise person, and they could earn a million dollars in one year. Wisdom is life. The book of Sirach says: “Whoever holds her fast will obtain glory… He who obeys her will judge the nations, and whoever gives heed to her will dwell securely.” Wisdom goes beyond gathering academic degrees, certificates or skills. Wisdom is not being deceptive; telling lies is foolishness. The wisdom that brings life is putting God first and living according to His commandments.

Sad times will come; events and circumstances will bring us to our knees. Do not give up on God when the going becomes tough because difficult moments will not last forever. Sirach says: “You who fear the Lord, wait for his mercy; do not stray, or you may fall. You who fear the Lord, trust in him, and your reward will not be lost. You who fear the Lord hope for good things, for lasting joy and mercy.” (Sirach 2:7-9). Jesus says: “For the gate is narrow and the road is hard that leads to life” (Matthew 7:14).

God hears our prayers because He loves us, not because we use many words. For instance, can you compare the length of Elijah’s prayer with that of the prophets of Baal when God sent down fire to consume the burnt offerings? Do not let anyone make you believe that you haven’t prayed unless you sweat. Ensure that every word you utter is meaningful.

If we understand the importance of loving God in our neighbours, we will not be far from eternal life. On the Last Day, we shall be judged based on how we treated others, not on how big our tithes (and burnt offerings) were.

If the only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing, the question is: “Are there still good men in our country today? What exactly are you doing to end corruption? How zealous are you for righteousness?” The book of Sirach in today’s first reading says: “I resolved to live according to wisdom, and I was zealous for good, and I shall never be disappointed.” (Sirach 51:18).

The book of Sirach today speaks of the beauty of giving and offering sacrifices to God. It says: “Do not appear before the Lord empty-handed… glorify the Lord generously… with every gift show a cheerful face, and dedicate your tithe with gladness. Please give to the Most High as he has given and as generously as your hand has found. For the Lord is the one who repays and will repay you sevenfold.” (Sirach 35:4-11).