Homily: Seventeenth Friday of Ordinary Time

Seventeenth Friday of Ordinary Time (Jer. 26:1-9) “Don’t Back Down”

The office of prophet was difficult. When God called a prophet, they had to be ready for a life of trial. We can remember Moses for example.

Moses was the first prophet. He was a reluctant prophet. This seems to be a characteristic of many of the prophets. They were reluctant to serve God in this way. Prophets had to speak truth to power. This leads to persecution. But the prophets felt compelled to speak.

Moses did not want to go down to Egypt to lead the people to freedom. He argued with God. He claimed not to have the qualifications necessary to accomplish the task of leading the Israelites out of slavery.

Time and again the Israelites complained to Moses about his leadership. Moses became exasperated. But Moes was faithful to his calling. In the end, he accomplished his great task.

Jeremiah had a similar experience. He criticized the people of Judah for being unfaithful to God. He warned of dire consequences if the people continued to break the first commandment of worshipping false God’s

Jeremiah was insulted, beat up and thrown into a cistern. He was publicly humiliated time after time, but he remained faithful to his calling. He continued to proclaim openly that the nation of Israel was heading for ruin. He could have tempered his message, but he would not.

Jeremiah is an example of a person who would not turn away from his calling even when it seemed crazy to continue. His example of fidelity should inspire every believer in the one true God.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Have I made sacrifices to live out my Christian vocation? What have they been?

2.    Was Jeremiah foolish for speaking in ways that made enemies of his countrymen? What would I have done?

Dear Parishioners,

          The seminar on navigating the end of life was very successful. We had a large turnout. Some people have asked if we might repeat this event. Perhaps we will at some point. Remember that next week we will have another continuing education night concerning ministry to families who have experienced suicide. This will be on Thursday at 6:30 at the Damian Center.

          Remember that your donations to our offertory collections help to support these educational opportunities.

          Our Lady of Peace. Pray for us.

          Fr. Mark