Homily of Wednesday of the first week in Ordinary Time
Ref: 1Sam 3:1-10; Mk 1:29-39
By: Rev Fr. Felix Olátúnjí YAYI, C.S.Sp.
Dear friends in Christ, today we hear a fascinating story- the story of Samuel. Samuel loved God deeply and served Him faithfully. When God called him, he initially thought it was his master calling. We can learn many lessons from Samuel’s life, especially the importance of choosing a mentor.
Samuel chose Eli as his mentor, and Eli guided him on how to respond to God’s call. Often, we find ourselves in situations where we need guidance or advice on how to respond. Many of us may not realise the importance of having a mentor. When Samuel couldn’t recognise God’s voice, he Turned to Eli, who knew it was God calling Samuel for His glory.
Secondly, do we hear God? Can we recognise His voice? And if we do, how do we respond to God’s call in our lives? The Psalmist provides us with an example of the proper response: ‘ Here I am, Lord, I come to do your will.” If our response differs from this, it calls for self-reflection. We should consider how we respond when God calls us.
Dear friends in Christ, our response to God’s call- whether at work, home, or in our businesses- should echo the Psalmist’s words: ‘ Here I am, Lord, I come to do your will.” Our will must be aligned with God’s. We should learn to surrender and submit ourselves to Him, regardless of our desires. Today, let us ask ourselves: Am I ready to do God’s will?
Shalom
