HOMILY OF THURSDAY 12TH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME – YEAR B
HOMILY THEME: “IF ANYONE LOVES ME, HE WILL KEEP MY WORD…”
BY: Fr Francis Onwunali
2 Kings 24:8-17; Psalm 78(79):1-5, 8-9; Matt 7:21-29
Obedience is the key word in the readings of today. The word obedience comes from the Latin words ob – audire, which means “to listen to…”. In biblical terms, obedience goes beyond mere hearing to include acting on what was heard.
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The first reading (2 kgs. 24: 8-17) gives account of the deportation to Babylon. Jehoiachin, who ascended the throne at eighteen years of age and reigned only three months in Jerusalem, did what is displeasing in the sight of God, disobeying God’s injunction given in the Book of the Law. As a consequence, he and all the nobles of Jerusalem were deported into exile. Have you made the Word of God your guide?
In the gospel (Matt. 7: 21-29), Jesus describes the essential requirement needed to enter into the Reign of God. It requires the believer to live out one’s belief by seeking to do God’s will.
Dear friends, “listening to” the Lord Jesus and acting on His Word (obedience) is what anchors us on the Rock (Jesus). If we have a foundation on the Rock, then even tough times and stormy conditions will not be able to destroy us. How obedient am I to the Word of God? Or do I only listen to what I want to hear and act only in ways I want?
I pray as we journey in life today, we will make the words of the Psalmist our guide: “They are happy who do what is right, who at all times do what is just (Ps. 106: 3). May the Word of God be the power and authority upon which we base our actions in life. May we continue to share in the abundance of God’s promises. Have an obedience-full day!
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