Homily: Fourteenth Friday of Ordinary Time

Fourteenth Friday of Ordinary Time (Mt. 10:16-23) “Jesus Does not Divide”

We can note several things as we read this passage. One thing is that Matthew had a habit of gathering several sayings together that relate to the same theme when he was writing his Gospel. The words of Jesus that we read today occurred at various times in the ministry of Jesus.

Jesus said earlier that the Apostles were only to speak to the lost sheep of the House of Israel. Yet here he speaks of a more universal mission. The Apostles will be speaking to leaders throughout the world who have various religions. This affirms the fact that these sayings were gathered from various sermons of Jesus.

Another thing we must remember is that the Jews believed that all of time is divided into various periods. There was the present which was leading up to the Day of the Lord. After that, would be a time of fulfillment and triumph.

The Day of the Lord would be a day of discord and suffering. On that day relatives would be fighting with one another. Jesus was not necessarily saying that his message of reconciliation would cause discord. He was saying when difficult times come people who are closest friends often turn on each other.

Unfortunately, we find that in our own day. Relatives who love one another find it hard to talk about things like religion and politics. Why? Because things are so stressful. We are often afraid, and fear leads to hostility.

Jesus’ teaching is not what divides people. What divides people is stress and uncertainty. If we truly apply the teaching of Jesus by loving our neighbor as ourselves that will bring the peace we so desperately desire.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Am I at odds with people that I love right now? Why is this the case?

2.   Does Jesus cause hostility? What does?

 Dear Parishioner,

       Next week is the Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis. Several of our parishioners will be traveling to Indiana to attend. We wish them well as they travel. Hopefully, there will be many graces that come their way.

          The Eucharistic Revival was prompted by low attendance at Mass in the United States. The success of this effort will be determined by whether Mass attendance increases in days to come.

          If anyone wishes to see what is happening in Indianapolis there is information in our bulletin about how to watch on television.

          May Our Lady of Peace pray for us,

          Fr. Mark