Homily: Ninth Friday of Ordinary Time

Ninth Friday of Ordinary Time (Tobit 11:5-17) “Answered Prayer is Sweet”

Tobiah returns to Nineveh after his journey to visit his kinsman, Raguel. He brings his new wife Sarah back with him. He also returns with a remedy for his father’s blindness. He rubs gall from a fish in the eyes of his father and his father’s sight is restored.

Tobit and his family are overjoyed at all the many blessings that have come their way. He is no longer an object of scorn in the community, but his neighbors see what has happened and they praise God. Tobit walks through the city with his head held high. He is no longer filled with shame.

The thing that is always striking in the scripture is that when someone has a prayer answered, often they will utter a canticle of praise. That is what happens here. Tobit gives effusive thanks to God. His poetic response to God’s favor has inspired people throughout the centuries.

We might be reminded of the Blessed Virgin Mary. When she speaks with the angel Gabriel at the time of the Annunciation, she utters her canticle. Her canticle is called the Magnificat. The first words strike us. “My soul magnifies the Lord.” She wants to share her joyful news so that others might believe.

Tobit has that same feeling. He wants to share all his good news and that is what he does in the city of Nineveh. We could also be reminded of the story of Jonah who preached to the Assyrians in Nineveh. His preaching was different. He warned of the wrath of God. His preaching caused the conversion of the Ninevites.

Tobit shares a story about the generosity of God and the mercy of God. The witness he gives causes people to believe as well. We are left to ponder what message is more effective. Is fire and brimstone preaching more powerful than the sharing of Good News? As Christians we believe that the sharing of the Good News is the best message.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Do I believe fire and brimstone preaching is the best method to bring others to Christ? Does that resonate in our society?

2.   When I have good fortune do I credit God? If I would do that how might that touch others?

Dear Parishioners,

          The Secondhand Sale is underway. We have had a lot of merchandise donated. This has been most helpful. We have also had a lot of baked goods come through our doors. The number of volunteers that we have had has also been most gratifying.

          We will be asking people volunteer to be Eucharistic ministers. If you are baptized and confirmed Catholic and you have a great devotion to the Eucharist, might you consider serving the parish in this way. We will train you and get you started. Please call our parish office if you are interested.

          May Our Lady pray for those suffering because of the wildfires and flooding in Ukraine.

          Fr. Mark