Thursday, May 21, 2015

May 21 - Homily for Today

The salt spoken of in this gospel passage, the salt with which we are sprinkled, is the fire of the Holy Spirit of good works. To keep the salt good we must do the works inspired by the Spirit. To say that this saying does not apply to me, or refuse to do it, is to cut oneself off from the very dynamic of Christian living, and to invite unrest and discord into one’s life: the very opposite of peace.

And when we do the works inspired by the Spirit, we must choose to do them with as much purity of intention as we can possibly do them, not being antagonistic to anyone, not following the sinful actions and conditions brought about by the improper use of hands, and feet and eyes. We must use our hands, go to places and look at only those things which build up the Body of Christ and help the reign of God to become more real in a very hostile world.

In the first reading from the beloved Book of Sirach – the practical guide to right living – we are warned not to take credit for anything, or to presume on God’s mercy in committing misdeeds: he is indeed a God of mercy and forgiveness, but only for those who are truly and deeply regretful and sorry: to presume on such mercy may bring undesired results if we forget that God is also a God of anger and wrath that is justified by obstinate behavior.

Those who truly hope in the Lord and live their lives like they are trying to be responsible and obedient members of his Kingdom, are the blessed and the prosperous; may we be among them today!

Amen.

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