Homily: Fourteenth Wednesday of Ordinary Time

Fourteenth Wednesday of Ordinary Time (Hosea 10:1-3, 7-8, 12) “In God We Trust?”

Hosea was a prophet at the time of the fall of the Northern Kingdom of Israel in the 8th century B.C. Some believe he was of the priestly class so he would have been trained in religion and Theology.

Many prophets would look at situations in their own lives and see in them messages from God. This is the way it was with Hosea. Hosea had a difficult marriage with a woman named Gomer.

Some of his problems may have revolved around his own moodiness. He could be very angry in his writing. A few lines later he might exude great tenderness. It must have been difficult for Gomer to adjust to her husband’s moods.

She was unfaithful. That is something that seems certain. This was very difficult for Hosea. He did forgive Gomer several times and take her back. He did love her very much. The relationship they had was very complex.

Hosea looked at his marriage and saw in it a reflection of what was happening in Israel. The country was falling apart. Hosea felt that this was happening because Israel had been unfaithful.

Israel had worshipped other God’s at times. The nation had also tried to protect itself by making treaties with other nations that were corrupt and untrustworthy.

Hosea felt that Israel needed to do two things to remedy the situation. The first thing that needed to be done is that Israel needed to commit to a monogamous relationship with the one true God. The second thing that needed to happen was that Israel needed to believe that God would protect the nation. There was a need to rebuild trust.

The Book of the Prophet Hosea encourages all of us to remain faithful in our relationship with God and it reminds us to always trust the Lord. If we commit to these things we will find the peace we seek.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Am I always faithful to God? When have I lost faith?

2.   When I try to solve my own problems what happens? Can I turn to God to ask for advice?

Dear Parishioners,

            The children are having a great week of Vacation Bible School. We have over fifty children participating. This is a great way for youngsters to be introduced to a relationship with Jesus.

            I noticed some of the older children who were helping learning many important lessons as well as they led games, music, etc. This interaction was good to see. Perhaps when they get older, they will want to be teachers and will get involved as youth ministers.

            Please pray for the children as they enjoy this special week. Pray that their relationship with Jesus grows in the years ahead.

            May Our Lady of Peace Pray for Our World,

            Fr. Mark