Homily: January 21, 2023, Tuesday of the 7th week in ordinary Time

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“For they had been discussing among themselves on the way who was the greatest.”

Isn’t this what we do all the time?

In a soccer game, we play to see which team is the best. In the Olympics, we see who will bag the gold medals. Even in computer games, we play to be the winner.

Who is the greatest? Who will be the first?

And Jesus’ answer is “the last of all and the servant of all” is the greatest. And He showed them a child.

I have been watching the popular TV series, ‘The Chosen’. This series has helped me better understand the human aspect of Jesus and the weaknesses of His apostles. They were clearly far from being great. The episodes effectively brought out the vulnerabilities of each disciple, their brokenness, unappealing characters, and easily shaken faith. I can relate so well to their imperfections.

It is worth reflecting on the life and growth of each apostle up till their martyrdom. How they gradually grew to become heroes of the faith, unafraid of persecutions and willing to die for Christ. I look forward to this same growth in me.

All through church history, successors of the apostles have continued leading the church with the same weaknesses. The church has never had a dull moment or been without scandals from her leaders and ministers. Other than persecutions from outside, the Catholic church suffers brokenness on the inside.

Yet,  she stands firm and is still growing after 2000 years. This truly is God’s church. God established His church to be a beacon of life and light to all nations until the end of the time. She will not fall.

What should we do? The responsorial psalm provides the answer. “Commit your life to the Lord, and he will help you.” Entrust your whole life to Jesus. 

In the first reading, Sirach recommended the same. He said, "Trust him and he will uphold you, follow a straight path and hope in him.  You who fear the Lord, wait for his mercy; do not turn aside in case you fall.  You who fear the Lord, trust him, you who will not be baulked of your reward.  You who fear the Lord hope for good things, for everlasting happiness and mercy."

We must commit our life completely to the lord, not let our weaknesses hinder us, but put our trust solely in Him. Through His graces, we will grow. He will not let us fall. Amen.


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Homily, Wednesday,January 5, 2022, Memorial of Saint John Neumann, Bishop

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Homily April 29, Memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena, Virgin and Doctor of the Church

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