Homily: Twenty-eighth Wednesday of Ordinary Time
Twenty-eighth Wednesday of Ordinary Time (Rm 2:1-11) “Lord Have Mercy”
Someone once said that the Epistles of the New Testament are the teachings of the Gospels explained in another way. It would seem this is apparent in the Letter to Romans that we read from today.
Paul is writing to the Jews especially. As part of God’s chosen people, Jewish people sometimes thought they had a special claim on God’s forgiveness. Paul says that God’s abundant mercy is for everyone.
Once there was a mother who had two sons. The two boys got in trouble when they stole some money from their mother’s purse. The two of them bought some liquor from another youngster. They drank until they were drunk. Their mother was appalled at their behavior.
She chastised the boys telling them how disappointed she was in them. The two sons both apologized profusely swearing that they would never steal from their mother again. The mother forgave her two sons. She said that she loved them, and she wanted only for them to love and respect her in return.
The older son knew that his mother would always forgive him. He decided that he would repeat his behavior when he had an opportunity to do so. He felt his mother would always forgive him. He believed he could take advantage of his mother again and again.
The second son’s heart was touched by his mother’s tears and her words of disappointment. He knew his mother had sacrificed a lot for him and he felt guilty. His heart was broken that he had behaved the way he had. He resolved never to hurt his dear mother again.
Paul is telling all of us that we are God’s children. We can disrespect our God by continuing to sin while we depend on God’s forbearance, or we can respect God and his benevolence by trying to be more ethical each day.
Reflection Questions:
- When I contemplate God’s mercy do I feel like I can take advantage of that kindness? Is it like having a get out of jail free card?
- Have I ever disappointed someone I love with my actions? What was that experience like?
Dear Parishioners,
We have several young people who are in our Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults process this year. I am impressed by their desire to grow in their faith. Some of them are juniors and seniors in high school. We also have some young people who have children and have sought marriage or are going to seek the sacrament.
I am reminded of what Pope Francis has said about accompanying people on their journey. We can meet those who want to come back to the church by scolding them or we can try to be patient and open to them. Many are seeking to live an ethical path and to encounter Jesus for the first time.
As I hear the stories of those who are seeking new life with Christ, I am humbled by how the Holy Spirit pursues all of us.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saint watch over you.
Fr. Mark