HOMILY FOR 17TH FRIDAY OF THE ORDINARY TIME — YEAR A
HOMILY FOR 17TH FRIDAY OF THE ORDINARY TIME — YEAR A
HOMILY THEME: “These, therefore, are the festivals of the Lord…”
BY: Bishop Anthony Ewherido
Having covenanted Israel to Himself, God established definite forms of worship in line with seasons and events, as visible expressions of their religious commitment and fidelity. These festivals were meant to be held publicly and communally; and with solemnity, devotion and sanctity. That is the character of Liturgy, the public official worship of the Church.
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The Jews still observe those festivals, and they form the matrix for some Christian feasts, like Easter and Pentecost. The important thing for us today is that these festivals were ordained by God to facilitate human expression of loyalty, devotion, gratitude, and reliance in its relationship with God. The Sacraments, in the Christian tradition, form an essential part of religious expression. A Sacrament is, therefore, defined as an “outward sign of inward grace, ordained by Jesus Christ, by which grace is given to our souls.” So, even though God is the object of our worship, we actually do it for our own sake; God expects it but He does not need it. We need it and should respond to that divine expectation properly, positively and zealously. Failure to recognize and duly regard God’s presence amongst us, like Jesus’ kinsmen in today’s gospel, is one form of improper response. Such failure often results in rebellion against God. Just as we must not take Jesus for granted, out of familiarity, so also, we must not take our religious expression and worship for granted because of familiarity or frequency.
Lord, may our celebrations and worship be acceptable in your sight. Amen.
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