Homily: December 19, 2023, Tuesday of the Third Week of Advent (Samson)

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 “As for the son you will conceive and bear, no razor shall touch his head, for this boy is to be consecrated to God from the womb.”

As we near Christmas, the readings at Mass help us to prepare well for the season. Today we hear about two miraculous births: the birth of Samson in the first reading and the birth of John the Baptist in the gospel. 

I like reading about Samson. He had tremendous strength and killed many of the Israelites' enemies easily. God blessed him with extraordinary powers on one simple condition – “no razor shall touch his head.” All he needed to do was to keep his hair, nothing else.

Why didn’t God ask for something more challenging since what He is giving to Samson is something amazing?

This reminds me of God’s simple instruction to Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden, they just could not eat the fruit of a particular tree, nothing difficult. And another situation when God rescued Abraham, Sarah, Lot, and his wife, He promised them safety with only one simple instruction – not to look back.

God does not ask for big projects or challenging tasks, He only gives very, very simple instructions, but He showers huge blessings. Yet in all those situations mentioned, man failed God.

Why is it so difficult to keep to simple tasks given by God? Why are we so easily tempted to disobey God?

We know Samson’s story; he was seduced by a woman to reveal the secret of his power, and thus he lost it.

Our God is a God of small things; He does not need a lot from us, He is ready to bless us abundantly. Whatever He asks from us does not add anything more to God’s greatness, power or authority, but in effect, is meant to bless us more.

And for us to receive the abundant blessings of joy, peace and love of Christmas, all He asks of us is a place in our heart, a pure, contrite and loving heart.

Are we ready to open our hearts to truly welcome God coming as a baby? Is there space in our heart for Him? Is there space in our schedule to spend with Him? Is there space in our homes to honor Him?

Or are we too busy with shopping, presents, decorations, parties, food, dressing up and vacations?


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Homily: July 20, 2025, Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary time.

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