YEAR A: HOMILY FOR MONDAY OF THE 19TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME (3)

YEAR A: HOMILY FOR MONDAY OF THE 19TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

HOMILY THEME: Persuasive Preaching is key!

BY: Rev Fr Oselumhense Anetor (Uromi Diocese)

HOMILY: Deut.10:12-22; Matt.17:22-27

We see the perfect persuasive preacher in Jesus Christ, who remained actively in the world, while maintaining his identity as Son of God. In today’s gospel reading, Jesus teaches both Peter and the collectors of the half shekel a lesson. He knew he was not supposed to pay tax. He made that clear enough. But he went ahead to pay, in order not to offend the tax collectors.

Jesus Christ didn’t pay outright. He put things straight first, then he asked Peter to get the shekel from a fish’s mouth for both of them. Friends, sometimes, it’s easier and most effective to consider the feelings of people when we try to correct them. We may not need to pull long faces, throw tantrums, and ignite “holy fire” just to prove ourselves right. It’s enough to show that we understand their position, before gently positing ours. And if our hearts are set towards right doing, they’ll most likely see things from our point of view, in time.

Good morning dear. God bless your week ahead!