HOMILY OF 9TH MONDAY OF ORDINARY TIME – YEAR B
HOMILY OF 9TH MONDAY OF ORDINARY TIME – YEAR B
HOMILY THEME: GOD’S GENEROSITY AND TRUST
BY: Fr. Isaac Awe
2 Peter 1:2-7; Psalm 90(91):1-2, 14-16; Mark 12:1-12
What does Jesus’ parable about an absentee landlord and his tenants say to us? The hills of Galilee were lined with numerous vineyards, and it was quite normal for the owners to let out their estates to tenants. Many did it for the sole purpose of collecting rent. Why did Jesus’ story about wicked tenants cause offense to the scribes and Pharisees? It contained both a prophetic message and a warning. Isaiah had spoken of the house of Israel as “the vineyard of the Lord” (Isaiah 5:7). Jesus’ listeners would likely understand this parable as referring to God’s dealing with a stubborn and rebellious people.
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This parable speaks to us today as well. It richly conveys some important truths about God and the way he deals with his people. First, it tells us of God’s generosity and trust. The vineyard is well equipped with everything the tenants need. The owner went away and left the vineyard in the hands of the tenants. God, likewise trusts us enough to give us freedom to run life as we choose. This parable also tells us of God’s patience and justice. Not once, but many times he forgives the tenants their debts. But while the tenants take advantage of the owner’s patience, his judgment and justice prevail in the end.
The Lord also entrusts his gifts to each of us and he gives us work to do in his vineyard — the body of Christ. He promises that our labor will not be in vain if we persevere with faith to the end ( 1 Cor. 15:58). We can expect trials and even persecution. But in the end we will see triumph. Do we labor for the Lord with joyful hope and with confidence in his triumph?
PRAYER: Thank you, Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits which you have given us; for all the pains and insults which you have borne for us. O most merciful redeemer, friend, and brother, may we know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly, for your own sake!” (Prayer of St. Richard of Chichester, 13th century)
Happy New Working Week!
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