Friends, today we are celebrating the twenty-first Sunday of Ordinary Time Year B. Brothers and sisters, at times, when we come to the crossroads of life, we are confused about which way to go. These are moments when we must make the right decisions, and the decisions and choices we make at such moments shape our future. At a particular moment in my own life, I came to one such crossroads of choosing between responding to God’s call and abandoning it as a priest, thank God, the Holy Spirit gave me the illumination I needed to make the right choice. Friends, the readings of this Sunday help us understand the importance of choosing to follow God and living out our faith in daily life. They remind us that commitment to God brings unity and strength.
Friends, in the first reading of today, having almost come to the end of his mission, Joshua reminded Israel of how faithful and pleasing the Lord has been to them. Finally, he challenged them; “if you will not serve the Lord, choose today whom you wish to serve…” Their response was relatively rapid and positive: “We have no intention of deserting the Lord our God…” Of course, as most of us do, they spoke well. Unfortunately, they did not keep their promise. As soon as Joshua was gone, they ran to other gods. The psalmist says; “those who run to other gods multiply their sorrows” (Ps 16, 4). Indeed, they multiplied their sorrows through their own decision and choice.
Friends, we, too, face choices about our allegiance. We can choose to follow God or be swayed by other influences. This choice is not done just once and for all, it must be renewed continuously, since circumstances keep changing and each new situation challenges us differently. For instance, when some relative of ours falls sick or dies, are we not tempted to consult the witch doctor to find out who is responsible, or when one leaves the village to go and stay in a city to study or work, we come into contact with many people whose life is corrupt and who invite us to join them. Brothers and sisters, this is when we must renew the choice we made on the day of our Baptism. Our commitment to God shapes our lives and our actions. Choosing God means putting Him first in everything. It means trusting His guidance and following His commandments. This choice is a daily decision, and it requires faith and dedication.
Friends, the second reading of today talks about family problems. Let us see what causes conflicts in our families. Is it not because everyone wants to dominate the others; husband over wife, parents over children, masters over employees? Paul invites the husband and wife to be subject to each other out of reverence for Christ. Paul describes this relationship as a mystery with many implications. It is a relationship based on a mutual love for one another. Such a relationship is devoid of deceit. Instead, it is based on trust and faith. It is a relationship that endures the test of time. It is different from what we see today in our society, where we get married in the morning and divorced by evening.
Friends, the second reading speaks about love and respect in marriage. Husbands and wives are called to reflect the love between Christ and the Church. This unity is a model for all relationships. Marriage is a partnership of mutual love and respect. Each person should care for the other, just as Christ cares for the Church. This kind of love is selfless and enduring. This reading teaches us about the sanctity of marriage. It reminds us that love in marriage should be deep and genuine. This love builds a strong foundation for family and community.
Friends, today’s gospel is the conclusion of the teaching of the bread of life, the Eucharist. Brothers and sisters, after the Bread of Life discourse, some followers of Christ were disappointed. What they heard was not what they expected to hear from Christ. This teaching is too difficult for them. His complicating their lives. They could not take it anymore. For this reason, many of them abandoned Him. So, turning to his disciples, Christ asked; “what about you, do you want to go away too?” This question from Christ is like Joshua’s. It leaves one with an option to remain with or abandon Christ at challenging moments in life. It is like saying, if you too are not convinced and comfortable with this truth, you may also leave.
Friends, many of us come to Christ thinking that everything must be easy. Some come with a very shallow faith. Yet, some of us come with fixed expectations and just to hear what we wish to hear. So, if our expectations are not met, we quit and bid Christ farewell. We must ask ourselves today. How many times have we abandoned God and his church, especially at difficult moments in life? Friends, there are inevitable moments in life when the authenticity of our faith and fidelity to God must be tested by the fire of afflictions. Then, only true disciples will stand with Christ to say; “Lord, to who shall we go? You have the word of eternal life. You are the Holy One of God.” Or, as Joshua said; “As for me and my house, we shall serve the Lord.”
Brothers and sisters, following Jesus is not always easy. It requires accepting difficult truths and making sacrifices. Some may find this too challenging and turn away. Peter’s confession shows true discipleship. He recognizes Jesus as the Holy One of God and chooses to stay. This teaches us the importance of faith and commitment, even when the path is hard. So, our song must always be; “I have decided to follow Jesus. No turning back, no going back.” The Lord be with you …. May the almighty God bless you, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Have a Blessed Sunday and a Fruitful New Week to You
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By: Fr. Ben Chola mccj
Aka Omuntu Wa Bantu
