God will not be Outdone – May 30 – Homily – Fr Ignatius

 

Fr Ignatius gives the homily at Bloomington, IN on May 30, 2023, where he reflects on today's teachings, which implore us to love God passionately. Sirach 35:1-12 - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/sirach/35?1 says we must exhibit generosity towards God, mirroring His abundant kindness to us. We are not required to love Him beyond our capacity, but our strength suffices to fulfill His commandments, an act deemed a significant sacrifice or 'oblation' in this reading.

In maintaining the moral law and the Ten Commandments, we achieve peace and foster goodwill. Sirach affirms God's magnanimity, stating He 'repays sevenfold.' If we adhere to His commands, uphold our devotion, God rewards us abundantly.

The dialogue between Jesus and the rich young man further illustrates this concept. St. Peter, in today's (Mark 10:28-31 - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/mark/10?28), mentions that they have relinquished everything to follow Jesus. Their sacrifice of leaving behind loved ones and embracing religious life, poverty, obedience, and chastity will be compensated by God, not merely 'sevenfold', but 'a hundred times more,' and eternal life.

Those feeling called to this religious life should embrace it. It promises great spiritual rewards and eternal salvation. Faith in the Gospel guides us to cooperate with this grace, accepting the calling. In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

00:00 – Introduction
00:17 – Lessons in Generosity from Sirach
01:11 – Loving God According to Our Strength
01:37 – Rewards of Observing the Commandments
03:00 – The Story of the Rich Young Man
04:12 – Entering Religious Life

Ave Maria!

Mass: St. Baptista of Varano - Opt Mem - http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/16006c.htm
Readings: Tuesday 8th Week of Ordinary Time - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/053023.cfm
1st: sir 35:1-12
Resp: psa 50:5-8, 14, 23
Gsp: mar 10:28-31

More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=654&r=1402

Also on Facebook: https://fb.watch/kRNTAYqqAl/
and YouTube: https://youtu.be/sbxiTXeqR6c