God Rewards His Faithful Servants – Jun 05 – Homily – Fr John Lawrence

 

Fr John Lawrence gives the homily at Bloomington, IN on Jun 05, 2023, on how the example of Tobit in today's reading, and in the days to follow, demonstrates that God rewards His servants who are faithful to Him and His Law especially if this requires much sacrifice.

The book of Tobit, - https://bible.usccb.org/bible/tobit/1 - illustrates the trials of those faithful to God, and the idea that their tribulations serve to cultivate virtue and strength. Tobit, a devout Jew, persisted in worshipping God despite living in an apostate kingdom. Even when he was exiled and faced hardships, he maintained adherence to his faith and served God. His initial obedience and faithfulness were rewarded with prosperity, though his charitable acts brought him into conflict with the ruling king, leading to the loss of his possessions.

However, Tobit remained steadfast, continuing his acts of mercy, and ultimately regained his wealth after the wicked king was assassinated. Yet, further trials awaited him, symbolizing how God alternates between bestowing prosperity and adversity upon His servants to enhance their virtue and holiness. Additionally, the narrative carries symbolic interpretations which prefigure events in Jewish and Christian history, such as the 40-day Lent period and the Passion of Christ. These trials serve to strengthen faith and foster growth in virtue and holiness, providing enduring lessons for us today.

00:00 – Introduction and Background of the Book of Tobit
01:35 – Apostasy of the Kingdom of Israel and the Faithfulness of Tobit
02:50 – The Fall and Exile of the Northern Kingdom of Israel
04:01 – Tobit’s Preservation of His Jewish Identity and His Prosperity
05:30 – Tobit’s Punishment and Recovery of His Property
06:06 – Tobit's Act of Generosity during the Feast of Pentecost
07:02 – Tobit’s Growing Virtue Through Trials
08:34 – Symbolic Interpretations and Moral Teachings from the Book of Tobit

Ave Maria!

Mass: St. Boniface - Mem
Readings: Monday 9th Week of Ordinary Time - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/060523.cfm
1st: tob 1:1, 2, 2:1-9
Resp: psa 112:1-6
Gsp: mar 12:1-12

More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=1086&r=1407

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