Homily – Saturday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time
By Fr. Williams Onyilo, CSSp
Readings: 1 Thessalonians 4:9–11; Matthew 25:14–30
To earn a living means engaging in meaningful work in order to meet our basic needs-food, clothing, shelter-and to maintain a decent standard of life.
Many of us can recall times when we had to take on simple or menial jobs just to sustain ourselves and support our families. After finishing secondary school in the early 2000s, some of us worked in phone booths, served as supermarket salesmen, did security jobs, or even worked in eateries. These efforts not only helped us meet personal needs but also relieved our parents of extra burdens, for which they were truly grateful.
In our African context, where families are often large, older children and relatives sometimes have to assist the family in making ends meet. On the other hand, those who refused to engage in any productive activity often drifted into idleness, which led them into destructive habits-clubbing, smoking, gambling, cultism, or even stealing.
This is why St. Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonians, encourages Christians to “work with your hands and mind your own business” (1 Thes 4:11). He insists that earning one’s living is not only a matter of survival but also a moral responsibility.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus presents the parable of the talents. The message is clear: we are to use the gifts God has entrusted to us-not bury them. By putting our talents to work, we grow in virtue, serve others, and contribute to the wellbeing of the larger community.
Our world today still needs this reminder. We must encourage young people to take up honest and productive work, no matter how small, rather than waste away in idleness or slip into destructive lifestyles such as drugs, gambling, and violence.
May St. Joseph the Worker intercede for us, that we may always use our hands, skills, and talents to contribute positively to our families, the Church, and society at large. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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