HOMILY OF MONDAY IN THE 19TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR A
Saint Maximilian Kolbe, Priest, Martyr
Saint Maximilian Kolbe was a Polish Franciscan friar, who, during World War II, sacrificed his life for a fellow inmate at Auschwitz concentration camp. His strong faith and love for humanity inspired him to offer himself in place of a condemned man, displaying incredible courage and selflessness. Canonized as a martyr, Saint Maximilian Kolbe’s legacy continues to inspire people worldwide to live a life of compassion and sacrifice.
Deuteronomy 10:12-22, Matthew 17:22-27
THEME: OBTAINING MONEY FROM THE FISH’S MOUTH
The instruction of Jesus to Peter on going to the river to get money from the fish’s mouth is a called to responsibility. Financial recompense comes from our work. As a fisherman, Jesus simply told Peter to get to work so that there would enough money to pay their taxes.
Feeding on begging or on free gifts cannot add up to our integrity. We must provide something of value or provide an essential service in society before gifts of any kind can be meaningful. Responsible citizens do not rely solely on social welfares.
Hence, “when the collectors of the half-shekel came to Peter and said, ‘Does your master not pay the half-shekel?’ ‘Oh yes’ he replied, and went into the house. But before he could speak, Jesus said, ‘Simon, what is your opinion? From whom do the kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their sons or from foreigners?’ And when he replied, ‘From foreigners’, Jesus said, ‘Well then, the sons are exempt. However, so as not to offend these people, go to the lake and cast a hook; take the first fish that bites, open its mouth and there you will find a shekel; take it and give it to them for me and for you”
Jesus wants us to be of good examples for others to follow. We must fulfil our civic duties and responsibilities even if we think the government is not getting things right.
May the Lord give success to the work of our hands, that we may be responsible in society. Amen.
