Homily Twenty-Eighth Monday of Ordinary Time (Luke 11:29-32) “Look for the Signs of the Times.”
Homily Twenty-Eighth Monday of Ordinary Time (Luke 11:29-32) “Look for the Signs of the Times.”
In the stained-glass windows of Sacred Heart there are many hidden gems. One of the pictures that is not easy to see is at the bottom of the Resurrection window in the choir loft. When you stand on the floor of the nave the picture is not visible. But when you go up in the loft the picture is. There is a depiction of Jonah and the whale which is almost three dimensional in appearance.
Why is a picture of Jonah at the bottom of the Resurrection window? It is because of the passage that we read in our scriptures at Mass today. Jesus says, “No sign will be given to this generation except the sign of Jonah.” Jonah, of course, spent three days in the belly of the whale. He was thought dead and he was then spit up on the seashore. Jesus would spend three days in bowls of the earth. He then would spring out of the grave.
The story of Jonah was a tale that Jesus obviously relished. Jesus had a good sense of humor and Jonah was a comedic figure. He was the prophet who tried to run away from God, but God would not let Jonah go. Jonah was the man who preached repentance halfheartedly, yet the whole city of Nineveh, a pagan city, reformed in sack cloth and ashes.
Jonah did not rejoice in his great success as a prophet but became angry that the wrath of God did not descend on the sinners he was trying to reform. The people were saved because of the ministry of Jonah, but he was not happy about it.
Jesus criticized the audience he preached to. He felt they were dense. Why could they not respond to the mercy Jesus offered them. Were the pagans of Nineveh smarter? Jesus criticism was not well received. People rejected him after his comments, but he continued to proclaim the truth.
Reflection Questions:
- How have I cooperated with the plan of God in my life? At what times have I resisted serving the Lord?
- Do I get mad when people I perceive as sinners seem to get away with misconduct? What does that say about me?
Dear Parishioners,
The window blessing went very well yesterday. There were several people at the open house who were very nostalgic about memories concerning our church. Some said they had never taken a close look at the windows before. That is the way we live our lives isn’t it? We have treasures that we walk right by. Let’s try to be more aware of the gifts God sends our way.
I would like to thank all parishioners, once again, for pulling together to restore our windows. We can do great things when we work together. God smiles on us at such moments.
May our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you today.
Fr. Mark