YEAR II: HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF THE 4TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME (2)

YEAR II: HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF THE 4TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

HOMILY THEME: The Absalom Phenomenon

BY: Fr. Evaristus Abu

HOMILY: Read 2 Samuel 18:9-19:3, Psalm 86 and Mark 5:21-43)

The king said to the Cushite, ‘Is it well with the young man Absalom?’ And the Cushite answered, ‘May the enemies of my lord the king, and all who rise up against you for evil, be like that young man.’” (2 Samuel 18:32).

Our first reading today contains the tragic end of David’s Son, Absalom. The story of Absalom is documented in the Bible so that we may learn what becomes of those who allow their quest for power go unchecked.

Upon returning from a self-imposed exile as a result of killing his brother Amnon, Absalom got a widow to make peace with David and obtain forgiveness by trick. Using highly Machiavellian moves, Absalom assumed the office of Minister of Justice to those who had suits. He would tell them how David could not hear their cases and how he wished David could be replaced with a more competent person.

When Absalom felt he had gathered enough supporters, he decided to declare himself a King. Since he had a lot of fans and loyal friends, Absalom taught he could overthrow David his father by means of war. Absalom was willing to do David what David himself refused to do to Saul. In the end, Absalom lost his life in the battleground.

No matter how good we judge ourselves for leadership, without God’s hand of approval and support, we only come to nothing. No one ever became a successful leader by usurping power! If the throne is not meant for you, the crown will never fit into your head. In your desire for power, remember that the position you seek is not worth the life of one person. Avoid dirty politics. You don’t have to kill to rule.

Our Gospel passage today contains the healing account of Jarius’ daughter and the woman who had suffered from a haemorrhage for twelve years. This teaches us that ALL POWER BELONGS TO GOD who has the final say? No one but God, not even death is beyond God’s reach. If all power belongs to God, it means that in our quest for power, we cannot afford to push God aside nor go against his commands.

Let us Pray: Lord Jesus, free me from self-pride and over ambition. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. (Tuesday of the 4th week in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 2 Samuel 18:9-19:3, Psalm 86 and Mark 5:21-43).