Sunday, January 26, 2020

THE THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

"It is human to sin, but diabolic to persist in sin.” - St. Catherine of Siena

Our world seems to be sinking very deep into problems everyday, because human beings have decided to plunge themselves into sin. The act of sin has been glorified with different nomenclatures. Man has the pride and the gut to justify their wrongful acts and thoughts that are inimical to their very existence and survival. 

This persistence and consistency has engulfed and clouded man into total darkness; leading to corruption of morals and degeneration of norms and values in our society today. Gone are the days that certain attitudes, acts, words, etc. were frowned upon; today, these same things are blatantly accepted and welcomed as if it is right to do them!

The consequence of this tripping-over has sadly ruined family life, relationships (friendships), marital unions, professions, personal identity, etc. We need someone who will be the light to lead us from this dungeon of darkness.

It is in such a similar context in the 8th century B.C. that the Jews in the first reading found themselves. Due to their sinful and waywardness, they were invaded and captured by their enemies. The Kingdom collapsed. They were helpless. 

So Isaiah’s prophecy preempted and anticipated the Messianic Days. He describes the new era of liberty and joy; which the future Messiah will usher in. So he employs the image of the light dispelling the darkness when he said, ”The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone.” Isaiah 9:1

Dearest in Christ, if you would acknowledge and rescind from your sinful acts and thoughts, the gracious radiance of the Lord will shine upon you. Peace and joy will be your portion all the days of your life and our world will be a better place to live in. Let the Lord be your light and your salvation!

In the second reading, Apostle Paul sought to correct the pride of the Christian community of Corinth, which was causing fractions and divisions amongst them. He insisted that they had to build their faith community with the same mind and purpose focusing only on Christ Jesus. 

Family of God, whenever we allow the sin of pride to take hold of us, the resultant effect is the breakage of our family ties and bonds, and the destruction of our common good. This defeats our mission and purpose in our Christian calling. So, in everything make Christ the first priority and goal. Remember, a life without Christ is full of Crises!

Finally, our gospel reading affirms the Isaiah prophecy. Christ is the light that was promised to dispel the darkness of sin and to free man from the obscurity in which he is enclosed. Jesus Christ becomes the efficacious means to express God’s involvement in human history and struggles. 

For this to be effective as beneficiaries, He invites us to repent of our sinful ways. Repentance is a decisive conversion or total turn about from our transgressions towards God. Remember that Sin is “Sinking Into Nothingness.” Give Christ a chance to dispel the darkness in your life! May the grace of God be enough for us.

This week I did my winter outdoor activity... snowshoeing... it was fun! It’s healthy!  
Enjoy the snow, but stay warm. See you in Church.

Fr. Emmanuel

---