Saturday, January 10, 2009

Homily – January 10, 2009 – Saturday after Epiphany

The gospel passage today tells us that it is Jesus that must increase, while those who announce him must keep to their place – as announcers only! But what happens is that Jesus himself greatly honors those who selflessly and humbly proclaim his gospel, his good news, the life that is available in, with and through him! Jesus had great regard for John the Baptist; he has great regard for us if we remember our right relationship with him and his Father.

Sinning is what happens when we don't remember that right relationship. Sin cannot really "hurt" God in a sense that he can be "hurt!" But it can hurt us and our right relationship with God – that we must obtain and maintain in our lives if we are to enjoy the eternal life prepared for those who believe and live rightly while on their earthly pilgrimage.

The first reading today tells us that our prayers will be heard if they are in accord with God's will. God's will always has to do with what is truly right and best for others: especially to steer them away from what would be harmful to them. Yet even then, the answer might not be quick; it will be in God's way and God's time: but it will be heard and answered.

There is a real Evil One who still has residual power in this world. What is so very sad is that the mesmerizing power of his evil influence still confounds a greater majority of people on the face of the earth. Real, sincere, honest, forthright, powerful prayer on behalf of those who are still in the intellectual and spiritual darkness (sin) that could cost them their eternal lives is needed more now than ever before.

May this be our thought today derived from this last weekday of the Christmas Season: "The people who sit in darkness can (if they want to) see a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death light can arise – and all can be well!"

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