Homily (Reflection) for Monday of the
Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time (I) (12th August,
2019) on the Gospel
Deut 10:12-22;
Ps 147:12-15.19-20. (R. v.12);
Matt 17:22-27.
Topic: Giving offence.
At Capernaum, the temple tax collectors demanded tax from
Jesus and Peter. Although it was wrong for them to demand temple tax from them,
yet Jesus paid to avoid giving offence to them.
Giving offence puts one off and might probably degenerate
into enmity. Jesus did not even argue with them on its legality. Some might
judge this as injustice. Saint Paul writes, “To have lawsuits at all with one
another is defeat for you. Why not rather suffer wrong? Why not rather be
defrauded?” (1Cor 6:7).
Provoking others closes the door of communication. Hence
Saint Paul advices, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring
them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Eph 6:4). Again, “Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they
become discouraged” (Col 3:21).
Not reasoning in the same direction is not an excuse to give
offence to others. We must live out Christ’s command, “Love your enemies and pray
for those who persecute you” (Matt 5:44).
Bible Readings: 1Cor 6:1-11.
Thought for today: ... love one another (Rom 13:8).
Let us pray: May the God of steadfastness and
encouragement grant us the grace to live in harmony with one another – Amen
(cf. Rom 15:5).
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