HOMILY FOR THURSDAY OF THE TWENTY FIFTH WEEK IN THE ORDINARY TIME
YEAR C, BY REV FR EKESHIRI JUDE EMEKA CSSP.
(Nehemiah 8:1-12, Psalm 18:8-11, Matthew 18:1-5,10).
Beloved, today we celebrate the feast of the Guardian Angels. The reality of angels is fascinating to most people, especially to children. The Guardian Angels are special Angels, that reflects the spirit of God guiding and leading us so that we may see the face of God in heaven.
The Guardian Angels, thought as angels that are placed by God to guide us and especially children, performs special role in our daily lives, especially bringing us guidance and light. And though this is true, they also walk hand-in-hand with each one of us throughout our lives.
The Guardian Angels are like personal body guide, they protect us against evils that are before us. They act in love and care for our wellbeing. We trust them and rely on their help.
In the gospel of today, “The disciples came to Jesus and said, ‘Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ So he called a little child to him and set the child in front of them. Then he said, ‘I tell you solemnly, unless you change and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:1-5,10).
In that case, children are perfect example of humility and greatness. They show signs of innocence and simplicity. In our world, people often look for greatness and to be better than others, without the sense of humility. But Jesus, says that, those who humble themselves are truly great in the sight of God.
Why would the disciples of Jesus come up with such question? Probably they may have been struggling and fighting to prove who is the greatest amongst them. But Jesus have another definition of greatness. He offers us the best answer to who is the greatest. For Jesus, humility is the sign of greatness.
Humility gives us a sense of service to humanity. Without humility, no one can please God. To be able to show how great we are, we must humble ourselves and offer to serve others instead of being served. Let us ask God today to grant us the spirit of humility so that we can truly serve rather than being served. In humility we can please God and our brothers and sisters. Peace be with you.
