FR. GERALD MUSA HOMILY FOR FRIDAY OF THE 24TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME CYCLE II (1)

FR. GERALD MUSA HOMILY FOR FRIDAYOF THE 24TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME CYCLE II

THEME: AMAZING WOMEN

BY: Fr. Gerald M. MUSA

HOMILY FOR FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 16 2022

The Gospel of Luke gives special attention to the encounters of Jesus with sinners, children, women, the sick, the weak, the sorrowful, and the despised. Examples are the widow at Nain (7:11-17); the woman caught in adultery (7:36-50); the woman who had the flow of blood (8:43-48); the parable of the widow who persistently sought the attention of the unjust judge (18:1 8). Many cultures around the world relegate women to the background of societal life. Jesus elevated the dignity of women and treated them with the utmost respect. He loved them and recognized the image of God in them. Luke singled out some women whom Jesus helped and ennobled, and who in turn accompanied him and supported his ministry. They were: “Mary, called Mag’dalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Jo-an’na, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means” (Luke 8:3). These women were collaborators in the work of evangelization. Good examples of other graceful, wise, faithful, and amazing women are Tabitha (Dorcas), Lois, Eunice, Phoebe, Priscilla, Aquila, Tryphaena, Tryphosa, and Persis. As collaborators in the work of evangelization women can offer tenderness, patience, and compassion. Women do better, excel, and exhibit their potentials where they are valued, treated with respect, and dignity than where they are excluded, disrespected and abused. Do we respect women as Jesus did and what opportunities do they have in the church and wider society to excel, and contribute their talents, and resources

LUKE 8:1-3