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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