Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial
of Saint John Chrysostom, B.D. (13th September, 2016) on the Gospel
and the Memorial
1Cor 12:12-14.27-31;
Ps 99. (R. v.3);Lk 7:11-17.
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: Wipe the tears.
As Jesus accompanied by His disciples and a large crowd
approached the gate of Nain, the dead body of the only son of a widow was being
carried away for burial. Jesus said to the widow out of compassion, “Do not
weep.” He came “forward and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And
he said, ‘Young man, I say to you, rise!’ The dead man sat up and began to
speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother.”
Many people out there are tired of crying because of the
condition they find themselves. Just as Jesus turned the widow’s sorrow into great
joy, God requires of us to wipe our brothers’ and sisters’ tears, cf. Matt 25:40,45.
Jesus’ action made the large crowds to recognise and to
glorify God. It is important to consider what we have done to wipe the tears of
others. Just one dab can save a soul already at the verge damnation. Saint John
Chrysostom was consoled by the support of the Pope. Many are waiting for our
consolation. Saint John Chrysostom rightly teaches, “If you cannot find Christ
in the beggar at the church door, you will not find Him in the chalice.”[3]
Bible Reading: Matt 25:31-46.
Thought for today: You must wipe other’s tears.
Let us pray: Lord, open my eyes to see the tears
that gush down from the eyes of your children. And give me the courage to wipe
them – Amen.
Saint John Chrysostom – Pray for us.
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