0

Homily (Reflection) for Tuesday of the Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time (II) (17th July, 2018) on the Gospel
 
Is 7:1-9;
Ps 47:2-8. (R. v.9);
Matt 11:20-24.
Topic: The essence of miracles.
Searching for miracles through various means is something very common. The spiritual probity of those performing or through whom these miracles are performed is often not considered. Some are ready to betray their faith for the sake of miracles. One therefore wonders if miracles have any spiritual benefit.
In the book of Exodus, the angel of the Lord appeared to Moses in a flame of fire out of the bush to bring him closer to God, cf. Ex 3:2-4. And to confirm the authenticity of Moses as His servant, God gave him power to perform miracles, cf. Ex 4:1-9. God also gave Gideon signs that He would deliver Israel through him, cf. Judg 6:36-40. When Jesus raised Lazarus, many of the Jews who came with Mary believed in Him, cf. Jn 11:45. Again Jesus said to the Jews, “...even though you do not believe me, believe the works, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father” (Jn 10:38).
Genuine miracles ought to bring people closer to God. Hence, in today’s gospel, Jesus “... began to reproach the cities in which most of his deeds of power had been done, because they did not repent.”
Count God’s blessings in your life. To what extent have they brought you closer to God if however you recognised them as miracles? Nevertheless, miracles are not proof of moral probity, cf. Matt 7:22-23. Look for the God of miracles rather than the miracles of God. One may experience many miracles without coming any close to repentance, cf. Lk 16:27-31. What will save us is repentance not miracles, cf. Matt 7:21-23.
Bible Reading: 1Cor 1:18-28; Matt 7:21-23.
Thought for today: ...repent, and believe in the gospel (Mk 1:15).
Let us pray: Lord, help us know you better through your works – Amen.
You are free to share this reflection with others if you consider it worthy.

For more homilies (reflections):

Visit our website: www.thepulpitonline.com
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thepulpitonline
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/thepulpitonline
Join our WhatsApp Group via: +234 810 298 6313
Send us Email: thepulpitonline@gmail.com

 
To Contact and/or to support this ministry:

Tel: +234 813 305 0302
       Email: thepulpitonline@gmail.com

May God bless you all+

Post a Comment

 
Top