HOMILY FOR FRIDAY OF THE 21ST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME CYCLE II (3)

HOMILY FOR FRIDAY OF THE 21ST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME CYCLE II

THEME: What counts as true wisdom?

BY: Rev Fr Oselumhense Anetor (Uromi Diocese)

HOMILY FOR FRIDAY AUGUST 26 2022

I Cor.1:17-25; Ps.33:1-2,4-5,10-11 (R.5b) Matt.25:1-13

The first time I heard the story of the ten bridesmaids, I was a bit disappointed that the five sensible ones would refuse to give some oil to the five foolish ones. I felt they should have been more charitable with their oil. But I later came to realise that the reward for good works aren’t transferable. Each person has to work out his/her salvation in fear and trembling. When it comes to the good deeds and the sacrifices that keep the lamps of our spiritual lives burning, one cannot directly depend on friends or family to help out.

Friends, true wisdom lies in the ability to distinguish between the things that matter and those that don’t. This is where worldly wisdom fails to measure up. At about this period some years ago, I read that a seminarian was murdered in cold blood by some misguided Fulani herdsmen, and I realised why many still think that our refusal to become equally violent is foolish. But we are not like those who depend on miracles, or those who seek worldly wisdom. We know that God is well able to save us, but even if He does not, our better nature will not bow to the violent pressures of this world. Indeed God has made foolish, the wisdom of this world.

Good morning dear. God bless your weekend ahead and happy last day of the month!