HOMILY OF SATURDAY IN THE 17TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR A
Leviticus 25:1,8-17, Matthew 14:1-12
THEME: WHY WE MUST CURB OUR NEGATIVE THOUGHTS
It takes God to know the thought of man. Despite the profound depths of the human heart, even a small amount of alcohol can reveal its hidden aspects. Oftentimes, people with exaggerated ego do not know the time they sell themselves out. If we nurse negative thoughts for a reasonable length of time, they may lead us into disgraceful or sinful acts later.
We read in our today’s gospel how Herod had wanted to kill John the Baptist, but was afraid of the people, who regarded him as a prophet. On his birthday, the opportune moment arrived when Herodias’ daughter, encouraged by her mother, made a request for John’s head. Drunk with power and prestige, the king was compelled to fulfill his promise to the girl. He ordered for the head of John. Fueled by his inflated ego, he managed to execute his malicious intentions, which he had lacked the courage to fulfill until then.
Let us put our thoughts under control, lest they expose us. May the Lord create pure hearts in us.
