Homily: Septtember 24, 2024, Tuesday of the Twenty-fifth Week in Ordinary Time (act on it. )

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“My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”

During Jesus’ public ministry, He had hundreds, if not thousands, of followers. He was very popular, his fame spread far and wide. Many people followed Him for various reasons - some wanted to witness His miracles, others to did not want to be left out of the happenings, and many wanted to be healed and cured by Jesus.

One other key reason was His preaching. The simplicity, yet often intriguing and intellectually provoking, and the power of His messages, attracted and moved countless listeners who wanted to hear more from Him.

Even today, we see dynamic preachers and Catholic speakers who would also attract large crowds. Many people, including myself, admire and would follow some well-known speakers so that we do not miss their talks or preachings. It is very uplifting and edifying to listen to such talks.

But truly, does Jesus want us to just listen to Him and follow His talks so that we can feel intellectually satisfied?

Truly, He wants us not just to listen to His words, but to feel them and act on them. God’s word does not just comfort us, it also gives us courage to act on what He tells us.

How? Let’s take one of Jesus’ most challenging teachings for example: "Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you."

In today's society, especially during competitions and especially nearing political elections, much hatred and anger are triggered. There is a tendency to despise those who disagree and oppose what one advocates and believes in. Those people are seen as enemies.

But think about Jesus’ teaching, as true followers, we are called to pray for those who disagree with us and to love our enemies, as difficult as it may be. We can’t do it on our own, but with God’s grace we can… if we are willing.

The saints and martyrs had lived out this commandment. They were able to forgive those who opposed them, rejected them or persecuted them, even in the face of death, they did not choose hatred but love, they did not curse but prayed for them.

Jesus, the King of Martyrs, showed us the best example on the cross. In the midst of His suffering, He forgave His enemies and prayed for God’s pardon for them. He lived out what He taught.

Know that there is power in acting on God’s word.  Let us not be Christians in name only but be true Christians who live by the words of Jesus.

As Don Schwager prayed, “Write upon my heart O Lord, the lessons of your Holy Word, and grant that I may be a doer of your Word, and not a forgetful hearer only.”

By this, we shall be called the mother, brother, and sister of Jesus, true children of God. Amen.


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