CYCLE II: HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF THE 13TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
HOMILY THEME: WHEN THE STORMS RAGE…
BY: Fr. Ben Agbo
HOMILY: *Amos 3 :1-12, Matt 8 :23 – 27.
The imagery of ‘storms’ and ‘sea’ are familiar biblical images depicting the reality of challenges, trials and temptations in the life of every Christian. But, it is so much better if in our stormy voyage through life, we realize that we are in the same boat with Jesus who is never really asleep. Or do you think he ever is? Depending on the nature of our relationship with him, his loving care protects us against the worst of storms.
Our relationship with God has to be like marriage. The closer God is by your side, the more confidence you have. Our faith must be full before his protection is fully realized. God does not like half measures. He still says : ‘Why are you afraid, O man of little faith? Be still and know that I am God! Ps 46 :10. The problem we have is our double /multiple allegiance with other gods for protection. Do two walk together unless they agree? Can’t you see that our sinful life, our idolatry, our oath takings before dangerous idols, our immorality, etc bring us into bad covenants with conflicting spiritual forces? And so when you begin to call on God, he does no longer come to assist as a friend but like a judge in today’s 1st reading he says : Prepare O Israel, to meet your God!
Our prayer today is to remain ever in the same boat with Jesus when the storms of life begin to rage so that we can be able to say like the apostles said in today’s gospel : ‘Save us, Lord, we are perishing’. To whom shall we go but to Jesus? Not to any occult-dibia-priest or pastor, occult brother or sister. There are so many of them carrying bibles and deceiving the children of God. Jesus is still there residing in the chapels of our various parishes. Just put your trust in him!
May God bless you today!
