Faith Turns Trails into Triumph – Feb 12 – Homily – Fr John Lawrence
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Fr John Lawrence gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, on Feb 12, 2024, on the essential role of faith in overcoming trials and receiving God’s promises, contrasting the Pharisees' disbelief with the teachings of James and the fulfillment of Jesus's resurrection.
Father discusses the importance of faith, referencing various biblical passages to illustrate his points. He contrasts the Pharisees' lack of faith with the unwavering faith required to receive what we ask for in prayer, as taught in the letter of James. Despite the Pharisees witnessing Christ's miracles, they demand more signs due to their fear of losing prestige, illustrating a refusal to believe for personal gain. Jesus's decision not to provide a new sign and his crucifixion are seen as fulfilling the Father's will, emphasizing the significance of faith in God's plan and the ultimate sign of Jesus's resurrection as foretold by the Prophet Jonah. Father also highlights St. James's teachings on the necessity of faith in prayer and the beneficial aspect of trials in spiritual growth, aligning with the lessons from the letter to the Hebrews and the Psalms on embracing trials for the sake of righteousness and holiness. He concludes with the reminder of God's justice in exalting the lowly and humbling the proud, urging faith in Jesus's promises.
00:00 - Introduction to Faith and Scriptural Insights
00:09 - The Pharisees' Challenge and Jesus' Denial
00:54 - Prophecies and Miracles: Fulfilling the Messiah's Role
01:22 - Skepticism and Privilege in Religious Context
02:03 - The Ultimate Sign: Resurrection as Proof of Divinity
03:12 - Faith and Prayer: Insights from St. James
03:48 - Embracing Trials for Spiritual Growth
05:15 - Divine Justice: Elevating the Humble, Humbling the Proud
Ave Maria!
Mass: Monday 6th Week of Ordinary Time - Wkdy
Readings: - http://usccb.org/bible/readings/021224.cfm
1st: jam 1:1-11
Resp: psa 119:67-68, 71-72, 75-76
Gsp: mar 8:11-13
More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=1595
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and YouTube: https://youtu.be/bkEN_VzKens
