HOMILY FOR MONDAY OF THE 3RD WEEK OF ADVENT (1)

HOMILY FOR MONDAY OF THE 3RD WEEK OF ADVENT

HOMILY THEME: SPIRIT OF TRUTH

BY: Fr. Francis Onwnali

 

HOMILY: MEMORIAL OF ST. JOHN OF THE CROSS

We celebrate today the Memorial of St. John of the Cross, Priest and Doctor of the Church. He led a life of prayer which bore fruit in a number of writings that are classics of the mystical life.

We are presented with the message that Truth is the source of divine power and authority. Truth sets free and empowers. In the first reading (Num. 24: 2-7, 15-17), one of the kings of Canaan, Balak, employed the services of Balaam, the prophet of Baal to curse the Israelites so that they will not enter into the Promised Land. However, the Spirit of the Most High came upon him and revealed to him the truth about the people of Israel. Hence, he blessed them instead of curse and prophesy that “a star shall advance from Jacob, and a staff shall rise from Israel”, symbols of power and authority respectively. May the curse meant for you by the evil one be turned into blessing!

In the gospel (Matt. 21: 23-27), Jesus, the fulfilment of all Messianic prophecies teaches with authority. Jesus’ authority and power as Truth incarnate, conflicts, threatens and neutralizes the authority of the religious leaders of His time who are seeking only for personal glory. They were not ready to accept Jesus’ divine authority. Am I any different?
Dear friends, it is only pride and arrogance that can withold us from submitting to divine power and authority of Christ, the Anointed One. If I submit my entire life under the authority of God and do God’s will, not only will I be set free and live in freedom, but also I will become a sharer in the divine authority.

I pray as we journey in life today, we will work towards deepening our relationship with Jesus, to do His will and act with His authority. May we minister and serve others with new enthusiasm and spirit which come not from our own authority but from God. Lord, may we grow in understanding the truth of Your Word and live in the joy, freedom and authority it brings.

Have a Truth-full day!

-Fr. Francis Onwnali

 

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