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Third Sunday of the Year (B)

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Homily (Reflection) for
the Third Sunday of the Year (B) (24th January, 2021) on the Gospel

Jon
3:1-5.10;

Ps
24:4-9 (R. v. 4);

1Cor
7:29-31;

Mk 1:14-20.

There was a
presbytery in which a priest was living with two houseboys. The priest used to
invite them by pressing the bell, once for the elder and twice for the younger
one. However, when the elder noticed that the priest would press the bell again
if he delayed, he used that as a means of avoiding his summons.

Topic: Answering God’s call.

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_nxAucLyIUM/YAzoAWY5-cI/AAAAAAAAGY4/_mT5NyvoFksglROpNYK74vJplUDapKDfgCLcBGAsYHQ/s241/24.01.2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="209" data-original-width="241" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_nxAucLyIUM/YAzoAWY5-cI/AAAAAAAAGY4/_mT5NyvoFksglROpNYK74vJplUDapKDfgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/24.01.2021.jpg" /></a></div> The call to discipleship demands
unreserved positive response. Accordingly Jesus warns, “If any man would come
after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Mk 8:34; cf. Lk 14:27). Again, “If any
one comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and
children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my
disciple” (Lk 14:26; cf. Lk 14:33; Matt
10:37-38). And again, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back
is fit for the kingdom of God” (Lk 9:62). <o:p></o:p>

In the gospel, when Peter and his
brother Andrew were called they left their nets and followed Jesus immediately,
cf. Mk 1:18. Likewise James and his
brother John left even their father Zebedee with the hired men and followed
Jesus, cf. Mk 1:20. The lives of our
fathers in faith were not different. When Abraham, Moses, Samuel among others
were called, they all answered: “Here am I” cf. Gen 22:1; Ex 3:4; 1Sam 3:4, 5, 6, 8. <o:p></o:p>

Call to discipleship is a call to
be sons and daughters of God, cf. Matt
12:49-50; Mk 3:34-35; Lk 8:21. And this manifests God’s love for us, cf. 1Jn 3:1. First letter of Saint Peter
reads: “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's own
people, that you may declare the wonderful deeds of him who called you out of
darkness into his marvellous light” (1Pt
2:9). But those called must be careful lest they miss the blessing, cf. 1Pt 3:9.<o:p></o:p>

Again, call to discipleship is
not a call to a life free from all forms of suffering but a life with an
assurance that after the suffering we might go through in this world, the God
who called us to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, establish,
and strengthen us, cf. 1Pt 5:10.
Hence, Paul concluded, “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are
not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Rom 8:18). Sometimes some abandon God
forgetting all He has done and is doing for us and “...that in everything God
works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose”
(Rom 8:28). God queries, <o:p></o:p>

Why was no one there when I came?
Why did no one answer when I called? Is my hand shortened, that it cannot
redeem? Or have I no power to deliver? By my rebuke I dry up the sea, I make
rivers a desert; their fish stink for lack of water, and die of thirst (Is 50:2). <o:p></o:p>

Through the prophet Zechariah God
said, “As I called, and they would not hear, so they called, and I would not
hear” (Zech 7:13). Not listening to
God implies closing His ears to our cries, prayers, praises, and so on, cf. Prov 12:22; 15:8, 26; 21:27. We also read,
“if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my
face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will
forgive their sin and heal their land” (2Chr
7:14).<o:p></o:p>

My dear brothers and sisters, we
are all called just as the apostles were called. The big question is whether we
are ready to follow God leaving everything behind without even saying goodbye?
Saint Paul begs us “...to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have
been called” (Eph 4:1). In the same
vein, Saint Peter also admonishes us thus: “... as he who called you is holy,
be holy yourselves in all your conduct” (1Pt
1:15; 1Thess 4:7). So it is left for us to either follow God or the desires
of our hearts (our enemy).

Bible
Reading: Is 43:1-7; 1Pt 2:1-10; 3:8-12; 1Jn 3:1-10; Lk
9:57-62; Eph 4:1-24.<o:p></o:p>

Silent Prayer: Do you know that you are called to be
Christ’s disciple? Is there anything you love more than God who has called you?

Let
us Pray: Lord, give us all the graces we need so that we may
follow you without looking at or thinking of any other thing else – Amen.<o:p></o:p>

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Third Sunday of the Year (B)

Homily (Reflection) for the Third Sunday of the Year (B) (24 th January, 2021) on the Gospel Jon 3:1-5.10; Ps 24:4-9 (R. v. 4); ...

Saturday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

thepulpitonline.com 0 Weekday Homilies 05:01

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of
the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I) (23rd January, 2021) on the
Gospel

(B.V.M on Saturday, Opt. Mem.)<o:p></o:p>

Heb 9:2-3.11-14;<o:p></o:p>

Ps 46:2-3.6-9 (R. v.6);<o:p></o:p>

Mk 3:20-21.<o:p></o:p>

Topic: Sanity mistaken for Insanity. <o:p></o:p>

Jesus came down from heaven, not to do His own will, but the
will of He who sent Him, cf. Jn 6:38.
And He also said clearly, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me, and to
accomplish his work” (Jn 4:34).
Based on this, Jesus was seen as insane because He was doing what He came to
do.<o:p></o:p>

Christ warns, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’
shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is
in heaven” (Matt 7:21). And that whoever
does the will of His Father in heaven is His brother, and sister, and mother,
cf. Matt 12:50.<o:p></o:p>

One can be Christ’s friend only by doing what He asks of us,
cf. Jn 15:14. What He asks of us
demands some level of radicalism, cf. Matt
10:34. Again, one must be ready for worse names than the one they gave
Jesus among other things, cf. Matt 10:25.
Our consolation is that the reward will be great in heaven, cf. Matt 5:12; 2Cor 4:16-18.<o:p></o:p>

Bible Reading: Matt 10:34-39; Lk 9:57-62.<o:p></o:p>

Thought for today: You can be seen or treated as evil because of Christ.<o:p></o:p>

Let us pray: Lord, give us strong faith to follow
you with all our hearts – Amen.<o:p></o:p>

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Saturday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I) (23 rd January, 2021) on the Gospel ( B.V.M on Saturday, Opt. ...

Friday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

thepulpitonline.com 0 Weekday Homilies 05:01

Homily (Reflection) for Friday of the
Second Week in Ordinary Time (I) (22nd January, 2021) on the Gospel

Heb 8:6-13;<o:p></o:p>

Ps 85:7.10-13. (R.v.10);<o:p></o:p>

Mk 3:13-19.<o:p></o:p>

Topic: Unless you are taught.<o:p></o:p>

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ycnKIj8iwE/YApOFdcdiUI/AAAAAAAAGYg/fMcNS9hZFzwkf7Xr7jFkD76mtso9sp_RACLcBGAsYHQ/s259/22.01.2021.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ycnKIj8iwE/YApOFdcdiUI/AAAAAAAAGYg/fMcNS9hZFzwkf7Xr7jFkD76mtso9sp_RACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/22.01.2021.png" /></a></div> In today’s gospel Jesus appointed the twelve. The gospel
reads in part: “And he appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles, to be
with him, and to be sent out to proclaim the message, and to have authority to
cast out demons” (Mk 3:14-15).<o:p></o:p>

Worthy of note is that they were to be trained by Jesus before
going out to preach what they were taught to others. This helped them to know
what and how they were to preach. Otherwise some might end up enemies of the
master, cf. Matt 12:30: Lk 11:23.<o:p></o:p>

Before His ascension into heaven Jesus said to the apostles:
“Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you” (Jn 20:21). And Jesus was always
faithful to what He learnt from the Father and expects us to do likewise, cf. Jn 8:26.38. <o:p></o:p>

Jesus is the Teacher of all those who truly follow Him, cf. Matt 9:11; 17:24. And there is need for
everyone to learn from Jesus before teaching others. One must be docile also,
cf. Jn 13:8. And while teaching, one
must be faithful to what he/she learnt to remain a friend and brother/sister,
cf. Jn 15:14-15; Lk 8:21. In other
words, to be saints.<o:p></o:p>

Bible Reading: 1Tim 4:6-16; Jn 13:1-20.<o:p></o:p>

Thought for today: Jesus is our Teacher.<o:p></o:p>

Let us pray: Lord Jesus, teach us your ways and help
us walk always according to your teaching – Amen.<o:p></o:p>

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Friday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

Homily (Reflection) for Friday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I) (22 nd January, 2021) on the Gospel Heb 8:6-13; Ps 85:7.10...

Memorial of Saint Agnes of Rome, V.M.

thepulpitonline.com 0 Memorials 05:27

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Agnes of
Rome, V.M., (21st January, 2021) on the Gospel and the Memorial <o:p></o:p>

<o:p> </o:p>

Heb 7:25–8:6;<o:p></o:p>

Ps 39:7-10.17. (R. cf. vv. 8.9);<o:p></o:p>

Mk 3:7-12.<o:p></o:p>

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ETKlUBoKA5s/YAkCkuNV7xI/AAAAAAAAGYQ/FCKxEzl89DYuz5g1gGcB3E3tSUmeO1jDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s225/21.01.2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ETKlUBoKA5s/YAkCkuNV7xI/AAAAAAAAGYQ/FCKxEzl89DYuz5g1gGcB3E3tSUmeO1jDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/21.01.2021.jpg" /></a></div> Saint Agnes of Rome was born c. 291 AD in a wealthy
Christian family. She was very beautiful. Agnes vowed to God never to stain her
purity. As a result she turned all those seeking for her hand in marriage down
including Procop, the Governor's son. In great anger he brought her to his
father accusing her of being a Christian. Despite all the promises made her by
the Governor Agnes did not change her mind. Finally, she was condemned to
death. Even the pagans cried to see such a young (12 or 13 years old) and
beautiful girl going to death. She prayed and bowed her head for the
death-stroke of the sword on 21 January 304. <o:p></o:p>

Saint Agnes is the patron saint of young girls, chastity,
rape survivors, gardeners, engaged couples, and the Children of Mary. She is
often represented with a lamb, the symbol of her virgin innocence, and a palm
branch, like other martyrs<a href="file:///C:/Users/Fr.%20Moses/Desktop/Weekday%20Homilies/Daily%20Tonic%20for%20Year%20I%20(2020-2021)/Ordinary%20Time%20(I)/Second%20Week%20in%20Ordinary%20Time%20(I)%20(2021).docx#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title=""><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 110%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">[1]</a>.
She is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox
Church, the Anglican Communion, and Lutheranism<a href="file:///C:/Users/Fr.%20Moses/Desktop/Weekday%20Homilies/Daily%20Tonic%20for%20Year%20I%20(2020-2021)/Ordinary%20Time%20(I)/Second%20Week%20in%20Ordinary%20Time%20(I)%20(2021).docx#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn2;" title=""><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 110%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">[2]</a>.<o:p></o:p>

Topic: Pressing upon Jesus.<o:p></o:p>

Many people from Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, beyond Jordan and
the region around Tyre and Sidon followed Jesus in today’s gospel because they
heard all He was doing. All who had diseases pressed upon him to touch Him
because He had cured many. And to avoid being crushed a boat was prepared for
Him. <o:p></o:p>

Today many still look for Jesus because of the challenges
they have as can be testified by the rush for both real and fake powerful
men/women of God. Most of these in actual fact search not for Jesus but for
solutions to their problems both real and imaginary. Many in the house of God
today are after the desires of their body. We often forget that we should walk
by the Spirit and not gratify the desires of the flesh. The desires of the
flesh are against the will of God, cf. Gal
5:16-17.<o:p></o:p>

Most regrettably, many have gone astray in the process of
seeking for solutions instead of Christ, cf. 1Tim 6:10. Many are ready for anything including sacrificing their
faith on any altar that promises them what they look for. Christ warns us, <o:p></o:p>

...those who want to save their life will lose it, and those
who lose their life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit them, if they
gain the whole world and forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return
for their life?” (Matt 16:26; cf. Lk
9:25)<o:p></o:p>

The only way out is to look for Jesus. He assures us, “seek
first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things shall be yours as
well” (Matt 6:33). Saint Agnes of
Rome we celebrate today sought for his kingdom above every other thing.<o:p></o:p>

Bible Reading: Jn
21:15-19.<o:p></o:p>

Thought for today: Look for Jesus Christ and not for His signs.<o:p></o:p>

Let us pray: May God help us decide for Him alone
– Amen.<o:p></o:p>

Saint Agnes of Rome – Pray for us.<o:p></o:p>

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<a href="file:///C:/Users/Fr.%20Moses/Desktop/Weekday%20Homilies/Daily%20Tonic%20for%20Year%20I%20(2020-2021)/Ordinary%20Time%20(I)/Second%20Week%20in%20Ordinary%20Time%20(I)%20(2021).docx#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title=""><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 110%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">[1]</a> <a href="http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=106">http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=106</a>
<o:p></o:p>

</div>

<a href="file:///C:/Users/Fr.%20Moses/Desktop/Weekday%20Homilies/Daily%20Tonic%20for%20Year%20I%20(2020-2021)/Ordinary%20Time%20(I)/Second%20Week%20in%20Ordinary%20Time%20(I)%20(2021).docx#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn2;" title=""><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 110%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">[2]</a> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agnes_of_Rome">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agnes_of_Rome</a>
<o:p></o:p>

</div>

Memorial of Saint Agnes of Rome, V.M.

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Agnes of Rome, V.M., (21 st January, 2021) on the Gospel and the Memorial Heb 7:25–8:...

Feast of Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi, P.

thepulpitonline.com 0 Solemnities and Feasts 05:05

Homily (Reflection) for the Feast of
Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi, P. (20th January, 2021) on the
Gospel and the Feast<o:p></o:p>

Phil 2:1-11;<o:p></o:p>

Is 12:2-6 (R. v.1);<o:p></o:p>

Matt
13:31.44-46.<o:p></o:p>

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F2Rn5SCFc-s/YAer7i4qsQI/AAAAAAAAGX8/IZKHqX-6QwwdJcgn-QFJ7KNoLIeyNDopACLcBGAsYHQ/s280/Bl%2BMichael%2BI.%2BTansi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F2Rn5SCFc-s/YAer7i4qsQI/AAAAAAAAGX8/IZKHqX-6QwwdJcgn-QFJ7KNoLIeyNDopACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/Bl%2BMichael%2BI.%2BTansi.jpg" /></a></div> Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi was born in Aguleri, Anambra State, Nigeria on
September 1903. Ordained a Roman Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of Onitsha,
Nigeria on 19 December 1937. He worked in Nnewi, Dunukofia, Akpu, and Aguleri. Blessed
Cyprian was later a Cistercian Monk at Mount Saint Bernard Monastery in England.
He died in Leicester, England, 24 January 1964 and was beatified by Pope Saint John
Paul II on 22 March 1998. Pope Saint John Paul II said, “Blessed Cyprian
Michael Tansi is a prime example of the fruits of holiness which have grown and
matured in the Church in Nigeria since the Gospel was first preached in this
land. He received the gift of faith through the efforts of the missionaries,
and taking the Christian way of life as his own he made it truly African and
Nigerian”.<a href="file:///C:/Users/Fr.%20Moses/Desktop/Weekday%20Homilies/Daily%20Tonic%20for%20Year%20I%20(2020-2021)/Ordinary%20Time%20(I)/Second%20Week%20in%20Ordinary%20Time%20(I)%20(2021).docx#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title=""><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 110%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">[1]</a><o:p></o:p>

Topic: After one’s heart desire.<o:p></o:p>

Today’s gospel contains three short parables about the
kingdom of heaven. The first compares it with a mustard seed one sowed in his
field. In the second one, it is likened to a treasure hidden in the field for
which someone sold everything. And in the third, it is compared with a pearl of
great value found by a merchant who sold all he had just for that.<o:p></o:p>

The person who sowed mustard seed in his field desired
something. Also those who sold all they had just to possess the treasure hidden
in the field and a pearl of great value were after what their hearts desired.
They were after something higher. Hence none counted his or her looses. The
three seemed to have said with Saint Paul, <o:p></o:p>

<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0 0 0 40px; padding: 0px;">Indeed I count everything as loss because of the surpassing
worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of
all things, and count them as refuse, in order that I may gain Christ (Phil 3:8).</blockquote></blockquote></blockquote>

What one desires points to the direction one is going; “where
your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matt 6:21; Lk 12:34). Blessed Cyprian we celebrate today is a
good example. He turned his back on everything for the sake of the kingdom of
God. <o:p></o:p>

We need to check from time to time to ensure that our desires
are in line with what we profess. This is because it is a very bad omen for one
to desire what contradicts who or what he/she professes. There is need to set
priorities right always to avoid ending up where one never wanted.<o:p></o:p>

Bible Reading: Matt 6:19-23.<o:p></o:p>

Thought for today: Go for the things that help you reach where you
are going.<o:p></o:p>

Let us pray: May the good Lord give us the grace
to forfeit all for the kingdom of God – Amen.<o:p></o:p>

Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi – Pray for us.<o:p></o:p>

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<a href="file:///C:/Users/Fr.%20Moses/Desktop/Weekday%20Homilies/Daily%20Tonic%20for%20Year%20I%20(2020-2021)/Ordinary%20Time%20(I)/Second%20Week%20in%20Ordinary%20Time%20(I)%20(2021).docx#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title=""><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 110%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">[1]</a> <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyprian_Michael_Iwene_Tansi">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyprian_Michael_Iwene_Tansi</a>
<o:p></o:p>

</div>

Feast of Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi, P.

Homily (Reflection) for the Feast of Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi, P. (20 th January, 2021) on the Gospel and the Feast Phil...

Tuesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

thepulpitonline.com 0 Weekday Homilies 04:36

Homily (Reflection) for Tuesday of
the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I) (19th January, 2021) on the
Gospel

Heb 6:10-20;<o:p></o:p>

Ps 100:1-2.4-5.9.10. (R. v.5);<o:p></o:p>

Mk 2:23-28.<o:p></o:p>

Topic: Sabbath was made for humankind.<o:p></o:p>

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-woG9FBeAlvE/YAZTwjKk_FI/AAAAAAAAGXs/GrdfbuUZzgQ79Rl-19a-dHPsQeUoGi9bgCLcBGAsYHQ/s289/19.01.2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="174" data-original-width="289" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-woG9FBeAlvE/YAZTwjKk_FI/AAAAAAAAGXs/GrdfbuUZzgQ79Rl-19a-dHPsQeUoGi9bgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/19.01.2021.jpg" /></a></div> In today’s gospel, Jesus’ disciples plucked heads of grain as
Jesus went through the grain fields. The Pharisees frowned at it as unlawful on
the sabbath. Jesus reminded them what happened when Abiathar was high priest.
David and his men entered the house of God when they were hungry and in need of
food. They ate the bread of the Presence which was lawful for priests alone.
Jesus concluded with this popular verse: “The sabbath was made for humankind,
and not humankind for the sabbath ...” (Mk
2:27).<o:p></o:p>

What worried the Pharisees was the observance of the
sabbatical laws. The welfare of the people means little or nothing to them.<o:p></o:p>

We are in a society full of assorted laws – religious, civil,
group, family, and so on. Some of these laws have no other reason why they
still exist other than that they were handed down by forefathers, cf. Matt 15:2; Mk 7:5. Many of these laws
have little or nothing to contribute to the good of humans. And some are truly
burdens and instruments of oppression. <o:p></o:p>

It is disheartening that many are either afraid, or
unconcerned, or too weak to take stand against such unjust laws. Today’s gospel
challenges us to see that laws are for the good of the people. God delights in our
welfare cf. Ps 35:27.<o:p></o:p>

Bible Reading: 1Cor 10:23–11:1.<o:p></o:p>

Thought for today: Laws are for the good of the people.<o:p></o:p>

Let us pray: Eternal lawgiver, direct those who
make laws and those who apply them to work for the common good – Amen.<o:p></o:p>

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Tuesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

Homily (Reflection) for Tuesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I) (19 th January, 2021) on the Gospel Heb 6:10-20; Ps 100:1...

Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

thepulpitonline.com 0 Weekday Homilies 03:51

Homily (Reflection) for Monday of the
Second Week in Ordinary Time (I) (18th January, 2021) on the Gospel

Heb 5:1-10;<o:p></o:p>

Ps 109:1-4. (R. v.4);<o:p></o:p>

Mk 2:18-22.<o:p></o:p>

Topic: Finding others’ faults.<o:p></o:p>

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IpoEQuAc7I8/YAT3kHjusQI/AAAAAAAAGXg/jlstsqENPzYh01Wt8GMhYG1rQnoYMRZRACLcBGAsYHQ/s276/18.01.2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="182" data-original-width="276" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IpoEQuAc7I8/YAT3kHjusQI/AAAAAAAAGXg/jlstsqENPzYh01Wt8GMhYG1rQnoYMRZRACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/18.01.2021.jpg" /></a></div> In today’s gospel, people came to Jesus and put this question
to Him: “Why do John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but
your disciples do not fast?” (Mk 2:18).
In sum Jesus told them that it was not time for His disciples to fast.<o:p></o:p>

The people expected the disciples of Jesus to fast just as
those of John the Baptist’s and the Pharisees were doing. They would have made
John, the Pharisees, and Jesus to be synonymous first, cf. Mk 2:21-22. <o:p></o:p>

In our everyday lives many spend the greater part of their
lives either trying to live other people’s lives or to make others live as they
want. Others spend the precious time giving to them by God looking for those
who do not live as they should.<o:p></o:p>

The more one focuses on others’ faults the more he or she
forgets about his or her own faults which might be much more than the one/s
he/she finds in others, cf. Matt 7:3-5.
We are to be our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers but we must first keep
ourselves to be able to keep others.<o:p></o:p>

Thought for today: Focus on correcting yourself first.<o:p></o:p>

Let us pray: Lord, help us in our struggle to be
better – Amen.<o:p></o:p>

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Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

Homily (Reflection) for Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I) (18 th January, 2021) on the Gospel Heb 5:1-10; Ps 109:1-4...

Second Sunday of the Year (B)

thepulpitonline.com 0 Sunday homilies 05:01

Homily (Reflection) for
the Second Sunday of the Year (B) (17th January, 2021) on the Gospel

1Sam
3:3-10.19;

Ps
39:2.4.7-10. (R. vv.8.9);

1Cor
6:13-15.17-20;

Jn 1:35-42.

One day as I stood
at a motor park waiting for vehicle plying the direction I was going, I noticed
among other things that various vehicles were coming into the park and many also
leaving. The vehicles that were coming in and those that were leaving had their
engines on. However, there were few that could only be moved by either being pushed
or pulled. There were also some vehicles in that park that have been at one
place for a long time without any form of movement.

Topic: …Look, Here is the Lamb of God! (Jn
1:36).

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xYNwUdXPP2o/YAO2pMW00xI/AAAAAAAAGXM/2--pwaoXlZQWkzYcUbsWcos8W6vADYv1gCLcBGAsYHQ/s247/17.01.2021.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="247" data-original-width="204" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xYNwUdXPP2o/YAO2pMW00xI/AAAAAAAAGXM/2--pwaoXlZQWkzYcUbsWcos8W6vADYv1gCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/17.01.2021.png" /></a></div> Today, I would like us to reflect on our
journey towards our creator as Christians. We read from the Acts of the
Apostles: “In him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28). Some Christians are just like parked vehicles. They
are what and where they were yesterday, and may be in that condition for the
rest of their sojourn in this valley of tears, cf. Ps 6:6; 42:3; 80:5; 102:9; Lam 2:18. <o:p></o:p>

Our journey towards God is a complex
one. But in this homily, we shall look at just some of the things that make it
up based on the gospel reading.

In Saint Paul’s letter to the Romans
we read:

Everyone who calls on the name of
the Lord shall be saved. But how are they to call on the one in whom they have
not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard?
And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? And how are they to
proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the
feet of those who bring good news!’ But not all have obeyed the good news; for
Isaiah says, ‘Lord, who has believed our message?’ So faith comes from what is
heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ (Rom 10:13-17).

Today’s gospel reads in part: “The
next day John again was standing
with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, ‘Look, here is the Lamb of God!’ The two
disciples heard him say this, and they
followed Jesus” (Jn. 1:35-37). John
the Baptist’s exclamation was the starting point for Andrew and the other
disciple’s movement towards Jesus.

They set out for something. Hence
when Jesus turned and asked them: “What are you looking for?” they replied:
“Rabbi ... where are you staying?” (Jn
1:38). Jesus said to them “Come and See” (Jn. 1:39). The question at this point is why did Jesus not just
give them his address but asked them to come and see for themselves? It was
necessary for them to encounter Jesus.

The encounter with Jesus brought
about transformation. Saint Peter wrote on our call as Christians: “You have
been born anew, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living
and abiding word of God” (1Pt 1:23).
Christians ought to mature and produce fruits.

The gospel further reads:

One of the two who heard John
speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his brother Simon and said
to him, ‘We have found the Messiah’ (which is translated Anointed). He brought Simon to Jesus … (Jn 1:40-42).<o:p></o:p>

John’s testimony ignited the two
disciples. They in turn ignited others. It is important to consider among other
things whether we have really encountered Christ and secondly whether we bring
people to God or scatter those already gathered? Jesus warns, “He who is not
with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters” (Matt 12:30; Lk 11:23).

Bible
Reading: Acts 2; Jas 1: 22, 25; Rom 10:5-21.<o:p></o:p>

Silent Prayer: Do you gather with Christ or scatter?

Let
us Pray: Lord, on our own, we can do nothing. Help us to
encounter you and to bring others to you – Amen.<o:p></o:p>

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Second Sunday of the Year (B)

Homily (Reflection) for the Second Sunday of the Year (B) (17 th January, 2021) on the Gospel 1Sam 3:3-10.19; Ps 39:2.4.7-10. (R....

Saturday of the First Week in Ordinary Time (I)

thepulpitonline.com 0 Weekday Homilies 04:37

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of
the First Week in Ordinary Time (I) (16th January, 2021) on the
Gospel

Heb 4:12-16;<o:p></o:p>

Ps 18:8-10.15 (R. cf. Jn 6:63);<o:p></o:p>

Mk 2:13-17.<o:p></o:p>

Topic: Yes, you too can. <o:p></o:p>

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUmXJQFt-_A/YAJfeQLTpkI/AAAAAAAAGXA/OHvzUYIwC08w-oED0MsygHi_YdRhdXRuQCLcBGAsYHQ/s188/Call%2Bof%2BLevi.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="188" data-original-width="160" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uUmXJQFt-_A/YAJfeQLTpkI/AAAAAAAAGXA/OHvzUYIwC08w-oED0MsygHi_YdRhdXRuQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/Call%2Bof%2BLevi.png" /></a></div> In today’s gospel Levi son of Alphaeus was called by Jesus
while he was sitting at the tax booth. His call ushered in a dinner in which
Jesus and His disciples ate and drank with tax collectors and sinners that made
the scribes question.<o:p></o:p>

Just imagine a pastor (priest) dinning and wining with
harlots, swindlers, among other notorious people in the society. Certainly, it will
scandalize many. Yet these always have the chance of repenting. However in the
Jewish culture, tax collectors are not just among the worst sinners but do not
even have the chance of repenting. Based on this, imagine how the scribes
viewed Jesus dinning and wining in Levi’s house among sinners and tax
collectors.<o:p></o:p>

Many think they would have been wonderful people for God if
they had known earlier. These see themselves as objects of scorn to both God
and humans. Remember that according to the Jewish belief Levi cannot repent but
Jesus called him to follow Him just as He called Peter, Andrew, James, and John
who were fishermen, cf. Mk 1:16-20.<o:p></o:p>

Irrespective of your mistakes God is calling you today. If
only you will answer. Yes, you too can make it. Just respond positively to
God’s call today. He is already at your door knocking to dine and wine with
you, cf. Rev. 3:20. <o:p></o:p>

And to destructive critics, Jesus is saying to you: “I have
come to call not the righteous but sinners” (Mk 2:17b). Encourage everyone to come back to God. Even the worst
sinner is still the son/daughter of Abraham, cf. Lk 19:9.<o:p></o:p>

Let us pray: Lord, help us in our weakness to
struggle towards you – Amen.<o:p></o:p>

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Saturday of the First Week in Ordinary Time (I)

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of the First Week in Ordinary Time (I) (16 th January, 2021) on the Gospel ( B.V.M on Saturday, Opt. M...

Third Sunday of the Year (B)

Saturday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

Friday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

Memorial of Saint Agnes of Rome, V.M.

Feast of Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi, P.

Tuesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

Monday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time (I)

Second Sunday of the Year (B)

Saturday of the First Week in Ordinary Time (I)

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