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 Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Ambrose, B.D. (07rd December, 2020) on the Gospel and the Memorial

 

Is 35:1-10;

Ps 84:9-14 (R. Is 35:4);

Lk 5:17-26.


Saint Ambrose was born about 339 at Trier and was elected Bishop when he was still a catechumen. He accepted the position after hesitation. Ambrose became a famous preacher and defender of the faith. He received Saint Augustine into the Church. He fought paganism and also protected the Church against political power. Saint Ambrose was a Christian bishop of great faith and energy.

Topic: Your sins are forgiven.

Jesus was teaching in today’s gospel when some men brought to Him a paralyzed man. They let the man down through the roof because the crowd made it impossible to pass through the door. Seeing their faith Jesus said to the paralyzed man “My Friend, your sins are forgiven you” (Lk 5:20). Although the scribes and the Pharisees questioned in their ignorance but the paralyzed man so much needed the forgiveness of his sins.

Based on the Old Testament, the Jews believed that bodily diseases are connected to sin. Hence, Jesus’ disciples asked him of the man blind from birth: “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents...?” (Jn 9:2). And for the Pharisees he was born entirely in sins, cf. Jn 9:34. Unfortunately, the main effect of sin we ought to be afraid of is not bodily ailments, because ultimately sin leads to death, cf. Prov 12:28; Matt 10:28.

Sin has paralyzed us in various ways, cf. Jn 8:34. So as we prepare for Christ we should remember that sacramental confession is very important. You may have your reasons why sacramental confession is not important or should not be now. Be assured that Jesus Christ Himself is waiting for you to come and be healed because you are His friend, cf. Jn 15:15. He is ever ready to say these same words to you: “My Friend, your sins are forgiven you.” Hence, He graciously invites us, “Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool” (Is 1:18). You and I need these words. Let’s get up and approach His throne of mercy. We cannot be of great faith and defender of faith like Saint Ambrose unless we first receive mercy from God.

Bible Reading: Jn 20:19-23.

Thought for today: Christ is waiting for you.

Let us pray: Lord, forgive us all our sins as we approach your throne of mercy – Amen.

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