Homily for Wednesday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle II (2)

Homily for Wednesday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle II

Theme: Spirit of Tolerance

By: Fr. Gerald M. Musa

Homily for Wednesday February 23 2022

Marcus Aurelius the Roman Emperor and Philosopher had an interesting work titled “Meditations.” That influential writing contains his thoughts about responsibilities, obligations, discipline, humility, and other topics. One of the captivating statements he made in the book is: “Men exist for the sake of one another. Teach them then or bear with them” (VIII:59). This statement shows how interdependent we are as human beings and the value of cooperation. In contrast, we live in a world where aggressive competition seems to be in vogue than cooperation. The brief conversation between John and Jesus is instructive. John said to Jesus, “Teacher, we saw a man casting out demons in your name, and we forbade him because he was not following us.” But Jesus said: “Do not forbid him; for no one who does a mighty work in my name will be able soon after to speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is for us” (Mark 9:38-40). Good people from every race, religion, ethnic group, denomination ought to come together to fight and flush the forces of evil that continue to destroy our society. There is strength in unity. How do we perceive people who do the same thing as we do or those who do the same thing differently? Do we see them as collaborators or competitors? If politicians of different parties see themselves as opponents, should those who work in the vineyard of the Lord not see themselves as cooperators?

Mark 9:38-40; Wednesday, 7th Week