HOMILY FOR FRIDAY OF THE 24TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME CYCLE II (2)

HOMILY FOR FRIDAY OF THE 24TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME CYCLE II

THEME: Life hereafter?

BY: Rev Fr Oselumhense Anetor (Uromi Diocese)

HOMILY FOR FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 16 2022

(Sts. Cornelius and Cyprian, Martyrs, Bishops).

1Cor.15:12-20; Luke 8:1-3

Today’s readings remind us that life doesn’t end here. If there wasn’t any resurrection of the dead, all who have died in Christ would have died in vain, and Christians would have been the most unfortunate persons on earth. But Jesus was in fact raised from the dead, becoming the first fruit of all who’ve fallen asleep. Think about all the loved ones you’ve lost, think about the mercy of the Father, think about the salvation Christ won. This is enough to follow the path to salvation while there’s still time.

In the gospel reading, we read about the Apostles, and the women who followed Jesus through towns and villages, proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God, by any means they could. They assisted Jesus’ ministry with their own resources. During the Decian persecution, Cornelius and Cyprian argued that Christians who rejected the faith should be welcomed back after serving penance. They understood that the life hereafter is of great importance. Cornelius was exiled under Emperor Gallus in 253 AD, and died in exile, while Cyprian was martyred under Emperor Valerian in 258 AD. Their lives and manner of death led many back to the faith. Can we follow their example?

Good morning dear. God bless your weekend ahead. Sts. Cornelius and Cyprian, pray for us.