HOMILY FOR MONDAY OF THE FIFTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME, YEAR II. 13.07.2020.

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Readings: Isaiah 1:10-17; Psalm 50 and Matthew 10:34-11:1. 


LAW AND LOVE

 

The readings of today calls our attention to how we practice the laws of the Lord. Do we place the law above the love of God or the love of God above the law? We are reminded that law is for the society, and love is for the individual; and while love is an inner flowering, law is an outward performance. This outward performance is visible in the first reading and Christ in the gospel wants us to love him more than any other thing, inclusively, our family.

 

From the first reading of today, through the prophet Isaiah, God expresses His displeasure on Israel’s religious ceremonies. Isaiah points to internal oppression within Israel, not caused as in the past by the Egyptians, but by their fellow-Jews. The religious scene in Isaiah’s time seemed so perfectly observant that one could easily have overlooked the injustices and suffering in homes and places of employment. In attempt to keep the existing law, they made so many sacrifices but failed to live in justice, peace and love. God’s anger blazes out in the words of the prophet: “I have had enough of burnt offerings and rams and the fat of the fed beasts; I do not delight in blood of bulls, or of lambs, or of he-goats…bring no more vain offerings… I cannot endure iniquity and solemn assembly… when you spread forth your hand, I will hide my face from you; even though you make many prayers, I will not listen; your hands are full of blood…” Isaiah’s warning is for Israel to make justice their aim, redress the wronged, hear the orphan’s plea, and defend the widow. By this very act, they will live practically in love with one another.

 

This message of the prophet boils down to many of us that are religiously inclined, we may be good in our ceremonial activities, we may be wonderful preachers and diligent in liturgical celebrations. We may use eloquent words to offer our prayers and be emotional in presenting them before God. We need to be watchful to know when our hands are full of blood because all these will be empty and useless if we make part of those that opposes social justice. Let marginalization, oppression and suppression be far from us. Rather, let us uphold love, peace, compassion and human dignity.

 

Christ in the gospel, speaks about problems that arise within the family circle. Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I have not come to bring peace but a sword: The message of Christ is a message of peace that divides between those who choose it and those who reject it. The division between these two choices explains how Christ did not come to bring peace but a sword. The dividing line between those who accept Christ and those who reject Him would even run through families. The sword he speak of would sometimes cut through families. In strong terms, he said that we must love and follow him supremely. Our devotion to him must come above even our household.

 

In a nutshell, love is the greatest of all and it is practically impossible to love God without loving neighbour. When we love God, we will stand for justice, stand for the good of the poor, the widows and orphans. Above all, when we love, we will be at peace. Peace be with you!


Have a fruitful week ahead !

Fr. Ken Dogbo, OSJ

Location: Papalanto, Nigeria

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