Homily for Saturday of 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle II (1)

Homily for Saturday of 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle II

Theme: Encounter with Jesus

By: Fr. Francis Onwunali

Homily for Saturday January 22 2022

Today in the Universal Church calendar is observed as a Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children. It is necessary that we take out time to reflect on the sacredness of life from conception to natural death. The readings of today highlight the import of relationship and the call to make God the center of our relationships.

In the first reading (2 Sam 1: 14, 11-12, 19, 23-27), David mourns the death of Saul and his Son, Jonathan, who were killed in a battle against their enemies. David, not minding the opportunity their death has created for him, still didn’t rejoice at their misfortune. Do you glory in others downfall?

In the gospel (Mark 3: 20-21), we hear of Jesus’ relatives’ reaction to His approach in ministering and serving the people. They thought He is now insane, and so went out to rescue the situation by taking Jesus away. They forgot that He must be about His Father’s work – bringing salvation to all who seek Him.

Dear friends, the encounter with Jesus always brings about transformation. Such transformation draws us into deeper relationship with Jesus. This is what His relatives and townspeople missed. Our relationships are not to be obstacles to us in doing God’s will.

I pray as we journey in life today, we will seek to experience, and at the same time to create an environment where others can experience this deep encounter that brings transformation. May our actions reflect the Truth which liberates and not shadows that fade. May God open our hearts to accept the words of His Son and do His will. Have an encounter-full day!

Fr Francis Onwunali