HOMILY, MONDAY, FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
MEMORIAL OF ST JUSTIN THE MARTYR
[Justin the martyr was born in the 2nd century in Samaria. He was converted to Christianity at the age of 30. His defence of the faith led to his martyrdom in the hands of Marcus Aurelius in 165 AD. He propagated a strong belief in the incarnation of Christ and the Holy Eucharist.]
2 Peter 1:2-7, Mk 12:1-12
There is a hole in us which only God can fill.
At times by our life styles, we bite the finger that fed us. We often take the generosity of others for granted. At times, we are ungrateful to God’s servants, that we even rally negative sentiments against them among the people. As a result of greed, we often covet the possessions of others. We even steal what is kept safe for our future use.
The parable of the vineyard and the tenants vividly tells us of the wickedness of man and the patience of God. The tenants of the vineyard maltreated and killed the servants and the son of the vineyard owner. However, when wickedness has reached this extent, then what will happen to such tenants? “The owner of the vineyard will come, put them to death, and give the vineyards to others.”
God remains our vineyard owner; we are mere tenants in this world. We are called to appreciate the gifts the Lord has put under our charge. We are all invited to give him honour in all areas of our endeavours.
Beloved, like Justin the martyr, let us accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour and desist from crucifying him again by our choices in life. Let us respect God in every aspect of our lives. Let us use our gifts for his greater glory. Let us appreciate those he has sent to minister blessing to us. Let us by our life styles give God glory.
PRAYER
Dear Lord. Help me to be grateful for your life in me. Help me to recognize, respect and welcome those you have ordained or sent to bless me. May I not by cheer wickedness, impatience or greed block the source of my blessings. Thy kingdom come.
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