Friends, today we are celebrating the third Sunday of Ordinary Time year A, Year A. The church urges us to draw closer to Christ, the light. Therefore, the church exhorts us not to be content with the physical lights. The readings of today show how God’s light shines in the darkness, how Jesus calls ordinary people to follow Him, and how the Church should stay united in faith. No matter the struggles or differences, God continues to guide His people. Lord, you are the light that leads us out of darkness. Help us to trust You when life is difficult. Give us the courage to follow You, even when we feel unworthy. Teach us to work together and build unity in our communities.
Friends, in the first reading, Isaiah raises our hope. This hope comes from the fact that God has manifested his light on us. It is a message of deliverance from the power of darkness that formerly harassed us. Isaiah declares: “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light; on those who live in the land of deep shadow, a light has shone.” The light, God himself, can achieve many impossible changes in our lives. However, we have to present ourselves before it. God’s light breaks our yoke and shows us the way. It clears our doubts and fears and increases our confidence in God and ourselves. Brothers and sisters, Jesus fulfills this promise by beginning His ministry in Galilee. The land that once knew suffering now hears the message of hope. Jesus teaches, heals, and calls people to follow Him. He shows that God has not forgotten His people. Many people feel like they are in the dark at times. Life can be full of struggles, disappointments, and uncertainty. Today, we are reminded that God’s light is still shining.
Friends, in the second reading, Paul expressed his disappointment over the Corinthian community. He rebuked them for their bad behavior. This is because they still lived in the shadow of darkness and ignorance. For Paul, their quarrel and division are not a good sign that they live in the light of Christ. Paul reminds them that faith should unite people, not divide them. The Church is made up of many different people with different backgrounds and talents. This diversity should be a strength, not a reason for arguments. Instead of focusing on differences, Paul encourages believers to work together for the good of the whole community. The message of unity is still important. People can have different opinions, but they should not let disagreements weaken their faith or relationships. We often quarrel over nothing, even in the house of God. This was the problem of the Corinthian community. When we act this way, we betray the good news.
Friends, in the Gospel, Jesus calls fishermen to follow Him. This is surprising because most rabbis would prefer students who were already well-educated in the law. But Jesus does not look for the best or the most important people. He calls ordinary workers who are willing to follow Him. Simon, Andrew, James, and John leave everything behind to follow Jesus. They do not ask questions or make excuses. They simply trust Him. They do not have special knowledge or great skills, but Jesus sees their potential. God does not ask people to be perfect before they follow Him. He calls people just as they are. The Gospel of this Sunday encourages us to trust that God can use us, no matter our background or abilities. All that is needed is a willing heart. The Lord be with you …may the Almighty God bless you, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I wish you a happy New Year full of God’s blessings and a fruitful Sunday.
Fr. Ben Chola mccj
