September 11 - My Homily for Today

Our readings today are about “seeing” and “perspective.” In the first reading, St. Paul admits to being one with a very faulty perspective – he said that he was a blasphemer, a persecutor and an arrogant man. But then, Jesus himself, looked deep inside his person, into his heart, saw what he liked – enthusiasm and drive – and transformed him into the great Apostle to the Gentiles. He cured his “faulty way of seeing things, his faulty perspective and vision” by the abundance of grace poured out.

In the gospel passage we see Jesus advising those who want to help others “see,” to make sure they are seeing rightly themselves: remove the beam from your own eye first – and then you can help others to see their way to Christ and his Kingdom – this is in fact all there is. It is our only duty!

Today we have the opportunity to apply this lesson directly and immediately on this 14^th anniversary of the terror attack on our country. It was the faulty vision of the terrorists that led to the massive destruction and loss of human life in 3 locations in our country. And, all these years later, terrorism still abounds in many other locations of the world – with serious and escalating intent and illness of will.

What St. Paul and Jesus both would recommend – though it may difficult for us to comprehend – from the readings today – is for us first to allow grace to pour into us – either by asking for it – or by just standing there and accepting it when it comes – and then by FORGIVING those who persecute us, praying for them and asking for their CONVERSION: (rather than their removal from the face of the earth). Just think of what an amazing world it would be, if – like St. Paul – the destructive energies for the terrorists – could be literally con-verted “turned-into” something good and useful for all of mankind. Anything at all is possible with God! Anything – even this unlikely turn of events.

The upcoming Year of Mercy, focused as it is on being merciful just like the Father, would be a great springboard for all kinds of “miraculous transformations,” healings, and reconciliations to occur. All it takes is our belief and our asking, our humble prayer, and our trust that all will truly end well for those who love God!

And we shall not be disappointed!