Homily Seventeenth Saturday of Ordinary Time (Jeremiah 26:1-9) “Who is Ethical?”
Homily Seventeenth Saturday of Ordinary Time (Jeremiah 26:1-9) “Who is Ethical?”
The prophet Jeremiah calls on the people to reform their ways. What exactly had the people done? They had trusted other Gods rather than the one true God. The people had looked to military alliances rather for security rather than trusting in God’s protection. Therefore, Jeremiah askes the people to repent.
The whole idea of atonement is an important concept in the Jewish faith. Each year the Jewish people celebrate what is known as “Yom Kippur.” This feast was established in Leviticus (23:26).
The Jews are to ponder their sins on this yearly feast. Really, the reflection starts ten days before Yom Kippur. These days are known are known as days of remembrance.
When Yom Kippur arrives a 25 hour fast is kept. No work is done. Much of the evening is spent in the synagogue. White is worn as a symbol of purity. Many other customs are observed as well.
The belief is that God keeps record of our good deeds as well as our bad deeds. We can be known as a virtuous person in the eyes of God or a sinful person.
Yom Kippur is a final attempt to make amends for any sins committed throughout the year. Does this fast and penance change God’s mind? We really don’t know. God is loving mystery, but even if we cannot change God’s mind there is still something consoling about saying I am sorry.
If we have ever accepted or given an apology, we know that profound healing in relationships can take place. The key move is for someone to say they are sorry. Nothing happens without that statement.
Reflection:
1. Penance is a forgotten Christian practice. Do I feel like penance is a fruitful spiritual practice?
2. Do I ever do penance for someone else’s sins? We see many people do sinful things around us every day, do I have any responsibility for the sins of society?
Dear Parishioners,
What does it mean to be moral? A moral person will base their choice on moral principles which they clearly articulate. Moral individuals will argue about their ethical choices and they will speak of the principals they are following.
The problem with many of the debates we have that are dividing our society is that the arguments made our only based on feelings. People say, “I don’t want to this or that.” Why? “Because I don’t feel like it.” We can’t argue feelings.
Two moral principles that can guide a person who wants to act in a moral manner are these. We must follow the principle of the “common good.” Do I make choices based on the desire to do what is best for everyone? When the “me first” motivation disappears from our actions we move to a more virtuous way of being.
Another moral principle we can base our decisions on is a belief in “solidarity.” A person who has this stance realizes that any choices they make will have an impact on others. When we move in a common direction it is good for humanity.
How are we making choices that will touch our lives right now? If we are thinking about the good of everyone we are living as Jesus would.
May Our Lady and all the Angels and Saints protect you.
Fr. Mark