Homily Fourteenth Monday of Ordinary Time (Hosea 2:16-22) “A Passionate Love”

Homily Fourteenth Monday of Ordinary Time (Hosea 2:16-22) “A Passionate Love”

We continue to read through our list of prophetic works today.  We begin reading from the Book of the Prophet Hosea.  Hosea is another brief work of the Bible. 

Hosea was a prophet in the Northern part of Israel.  He, unlike Amos who we heard from last week, was a sophisticated religious person.  He, we believe, was a priest or guild prophet.  He spoke out against Israel making alliances with foreign powers to try to protect itself. 

Quite often prophets would perform symbolic actions to emphasize their message.  Hosea did something that seems rather extreme.  He married a prostitute.  He speaks of his great love for his wife.  But he also rants and raves because he is mad at her for being unfaithful.

We, of course, find all this rather shocking.  We might take offense at the way that the woman Hosea marries is treated.  Did he have anything to do with his wife’s unhappiness?  It takes two to make a marriage does it not?  Was Hosea morally superior or not.

One thing that is not questionable is Hosea’s love for his wife.  His words are full of emotion and hurt.  At times he would like to end his relationship.  At other times he seems incapable of letting go.  There is a passion he cannot control.

This whole experience is something that Hosea says is a symbol of God’s love for Israel.  Israel cheats on her relationship with God, but God cannot let go.  God is too much in love.

The message for us as a believer is that God will not let go of us either.  No matter how badly we foul up our God will remain in relationship with us.  No action of ours can cause God to hate us.  The choice to distance ourselves from God is up to us. God loves us too much to turn away.

Reflection Questions:

1. Does Hosea’s words and actions seem extreme?  Or, do they reflect common human experiences?

2.  Have I been in a situation like Hosea?  Have I been in a relationship I should end, but I am reluctant to do so?

Dear Parishioners,

          We seem to have our live streaming up and running. We will be having some special events live on Facebook the next few weeks.  We will be having two First Communions and two Confirmations. If you have relatives who are receiving sacraments and you find yourself afraid to come in the church watching online is a good option.  I would ask all parishioners to pray for the children who are receiving sacraments the next few weeks. 

          We pray for all those who continue to suffer from the COVID 19 epidemic.  This is not a time to let up on our efforts to contain the virus.  Remember to wear masks, wash your hands and keep physical distance from others who are not in your household. 

          I would love to have everyone attending church, but I understand if you are at risk and feel unable to come.  The outside Mass seems to be a good option for people.  Research has shown that we are much less likely to pass the virus on if it is quickly dissipated in the open air.

          May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints watch over you today.

          Fr. Mark