Our Lady of Africa @ 56
Friends, today we are celebrating the twentieth Sunday of Ordinary Time Year C. The readings of today challenge us to think deeply about the cost of following Jesus. Through the stories of Jeremiah and the words of Jesus, we see the difficulties that come with living out our faith. These reflections explore themes of staying faithful in hard times, the transforming fire of God’s love, and facing the challenges that arise when we stand firm in our beliefs. Lord, help us to stay faithful to You, even when it is hard. Give us the courage to face challenges with trust in Your guidance. May Your love burn within us, changing us into the people You call us to be.
Friends, the first reading of today tells us the story of Jeremiah. He speaks the truth that God has given him, but this truth is not what people want to hear. Because of this, Jeremiah is thrown into a pit and left to die. Yet, even in this suffering, Jeremiah remains faithful to God. This reading reminds us that following God’s will can be difficult. Like Jeremiah, we may face situations where telling the truth or doing what is right leads to suffering. It can be tempting to avoid these challenges, but Jeremiah’s example shows us that faithfulness to God is more important than avoiding hardship. Brothers and sisters, in our lives, we might encounter moments where standing up for what we believe in makes us unpopular or even puts us in danger. We are called to follow God’s truth, no matter the cost, knowing that He is with us even in the most difficult times. Our God is ever faithful and ready to deliver us in times of difficulty. This is especially when we are just and innocent. Hence, we must not give up even if we are crushed.
Friends, the second reading from the letter to the Hebrews encourages us to keep running steadily. We are to “focus on Jesus, the author of our faith.” This reading encourages us to emulate Christ’s zeal and courage during difficult moments in life. Hence, in the face of opposition, we must be firm. Indeed, Jesus Christ will supply the strength and energy we need to do all these. While the Gospel of today speaks of fire, which often represents God. Throughout the Bible, fire shows God’s presence, like the burning bush or the pillar of fire that guided the Israelites. In our worship, fire is also important. The Easter candle and baptismal candles remind us of the light of Christ.
Friends, fire has the power to change things. It melts wax, purifies metals, and cooks food, making it safe to eat. But fire can also destroy if we do not respect it. Fire can shake things up, burning away what is harmful and leaving only what is good. This is how the fire of God works in our lives. The Gospel of today invites us to let the fire of Christ take hold of us. This fire can change us in ways we might not expect. It can challenge our old habits and ways of thinking. Though it might be uncomfortable, this change is necessary for us to grow closer to God. The fire of God’s love warms and lights our path, guiding us to be the people He calls us to be. It is the fire of the Holy Spirit that purifies our souls from evil and saves us. The fire here is the saving message of the Gospel, and the power of its commandments. The Lord be with you …may the Almighty God bless you, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I wish you a blessed Celebration of Our Parish Day and a fruitful new week ahead of you.
