June 19 - Homily for Today

In the first reading today St. Paul  is trying to convince the Corinthians that he is very much a man full of weakness, suffering trials and distress and in need of God’s strength and mercy as they are as well! In fact he boasts quite freely of his challenging experiences – not for pity’s sake – but simply for comparison’s sake, and to teach that when one boasts and glories in weakness, it is then that the power of Christ can come and transform what is merely human into something that is quite divine! It was true of Paul, it was true of the Corinthians and it can be true of us, if we actually try it!

In the gospel passage Jesus presents for us the object of our focus, that which we must keep our eyes fixed on during all experiences of trial and difficulty: and that is the beatific vision of God in heaven which awaits all who believe in his Son and live like they believe in him: where this treasure is (i.e. heaven) there hearts must be – and thus we will have a sure compass and guiding star to guide us through life’s rough waters!

If we do not keep our eyes focused on heaven, then their God enkindled brightness and light will be dimmed, and the corruption of the world will darken them into useless body parts that have lost their ability to function at all – and what a tragedy this would be!

Let our faces then, and our eyes, be radiant with joy, O Lord – as you deliver us from all our distress, all of our weaknesses, all of our trials! Amen!