Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial
of Saint John of the Cross, P.D., (14th December, 2018) on the
Gospel and the Memorial
Is 48:17-19;
Ps 1:1-4.6. (R. cf. Jn 8:12);
Matt 11:16-19.
Saint John of the Cross was born in Spain in 1542. He
became a Carmelite and was ordained a priest in 1567. Saint Theresa of Avila
encouraged him to undertake the reform of his Order. He was strenuously opposed
and suffered many trials and setbacks. He led a life of prayer which bore fruit
in a number of writings that are classics of the mystical life which include The Ascent of Mount Carmel, The Dark Night of the Soul, The Spiritual Canticle, and The Living Flame of Love. His
outstanding homilies, austerity of life, poetic genius and charity remain
living examples.[1]
Topic: Utmost Importance.
Jesus compares this generation with children sitting in the
marketplaces and calling to one another, “We played the flute for you, and you
did not dance; we wailed, and you did not mourn” (cf. Matt 11:16-17). This comparison was based on their inability to
accept both John the Baptist and the Messiah irrespective of their life styles.
May be you have been worrying what you will do to please one
person or the other. I want to remind you that we are still in that generation
Jesus spoke about in today’s gospel or even in a worse one. Both Jesus and His
forerunner were not bothered about this but that of Utmost Importance, doing
the will of God. Saint John of the Cross we celebrate today also followed the same
path. So, listen to God and not to men, (cf. Acts 4:19) learn how to please God and not men, cf. 1Thess 4:1.
Bible Reading: Acts 4:1-22.
Thought for today: What is Utmost
Important to you?
Let us pray: Lord, help us to listen to you and
to please you alone – Amen.
Saint John of the Cross – Pray for us.
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others if you consider it worthy.
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May
God bless you all+
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