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Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint John Chrysostom, B.D., (13th September, 2019) on the Gospel and the Memorial
 
1Tim 1:1-2.12-14;
Ps 15:1-2.5.7-8.11. (R. cf. v.5);
Lk 6:39-42.

Saint John, named Chrysostom (golden-mouthed) on account of his eloquence was born in Antioch of Christian parents, about the year 344. He studied rhetoric under Libanius. In 374, he began to lead the life of an anchorite in the mountains near Antioch, but in 386 the poor state of his health forced him to return to Antioch, where he was ordained a priest. In 398, he was elevated to the See of Constantinople and became one of the greatest lights of the Church. He was exiled on account of the accusations against him from his enemies. The Pope remaining with him consoled him. He was later banished further to the very extremity of the Empire (Pythius). He died on his way there on September 14, 407.[1] Saint John is the patron saint of Constantinople, education, epilepsy, lecturers, orators, and preachers. He is venerated in Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodoxy, Oriental Orthodoxy, and Church of the East.[2]
Topic: What a contradiction!
Jesus tells us that a blind cannot lead a blind without both falling into a pit. A fully qualified student will be like the teacher. He wonders,
Why do you see the speck in your neighbour’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye? Or how can you say to your neighbour, ‘Friend, let me take out the speck in your eye, when you yourself do not see the log in your own eye?’
This perfectly describes the situation we see in the political as well as many religious circles today. Despite much noise, we have little or nothing positive to show. One might question with Saint Paul in Romans chapter 2 verse 3, “Do you imagine, whoever you are, that when you judge those who do such things and yet do them yourself, you will escape the judgement of God?”
Jesus concludes today’s gospel with this advice, “You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbour’s eye.” Whether we are in the political or religious circle, God expects us to lead by example, cf. 2Cor 10:11; Matt 23:3. God’s punishment will come upon all who do not do the will of God and there will be no escape, cf. 1Thess 5:3. We should remove every speck and log that endangers people’s eyes. But for this to be real, each person must first remove the one in his/her own eyes.
Bible Reading: 1Pt 7-11.
Thought for today: Every product reflects its maker.
Let us pray: May God help us better our world starting from ourselves – Amen.
Saint John Chrysostom – Pray for us.
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