MONDAY HOMILY OF 13TH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME – YEAR B

MONDAY HOMILY OF 13TH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME – YEAR B

HOMILY THEME: RESPOND TO GOD’S CALL WITHOUT DELAY!

BY: Fr. Obinna Ezeaputa

Amos 2:6-10, 13-16; Psalm 49(50):16-23; Matthew 8:18-22

Our gospel reading today (Matthew 8:18–22) presents us with a profound lesson on the nature of discipleship. As Cardinal Newman notes, “The world is a wilderness, and we are but travelers through it” (Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. 4). Jesus’ encounter with the two would-be followers highlights the radical demands of following Him.

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The first individual eager to join Jesus says, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” He represents those who would follow him superficially without truly relinquishing their attachment to the world. Newman observes, “Many men come to God when they are in trouble, but they do not stay with Him when their troubles are over.”

Jesus responds, “Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head” (Matthew 8:20), indicating that true discipleship requires a willingness to embrace uncertainty and detachment. This statement also echoes Jesus’ earlier declaration that His kingdom is “not of this world” (John 18:36), highlighting the transcendent nature of His mission.

The second individual who asks to bury his father first represents those who would prioritize earthly obligations over their relationship with God. Cardinal John Henry Newman observes, “We must not let our duties to our fellowmen interfere with our duties to God.”

Jesus replies, “Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead,” emphasizing the urgency of responding to God’s call without delay. In other words, our commitment to following Jesus must be unwavering, even if it means leaving behind familiar comforts and obligations.

Newman’s insights into today’s gospel reading (Matthew 8:18–22) remind us that true discipleship demands a total surrender of our lives to God. He asks us to cling to Jesus, our sole refuge and guide, as we journey through the wilderness of this world.

Let us pray that his grace and love may transform our hearts. And may the Lord bless you this Monday and throughout the week! Amen.

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