HOMILY OF SATURDAY IN THE 23RD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR A
1 Timothy 1:15-17, Luke 6:43-49
Saints Cornelius, Pope, and Cyprian, Bishop, Martyr
Saints Cornelius, Pope, and Cyprian, Bishop, were early Christian martyrs who exemplified unwavering faith and commitment during the third century. Pope Cornelius, chosen as the Bishop of Rome, faced schisms and challenges within the Church. Bishop Cyprian of Carthage, a prominent theologian, worked for unity amidst persecution. Both chose martyrdom rather than renouncing their faith, inspiring countless believers. Their dedication to Christ’s teachings continues to be celebrated, emphasizing the importance of faith in adversity.
THEME: EVIDENCE OF GOD’S MERCY
The life we live is the evidence of God’s mercy. No one can boast because no one can add a cubit to his or her life.
Paul said to Timothy in the first reading,
“If mercy has been shown to me, it is because Jesus Christ meant to make me the greatest evidence of his inexhaustible patience for all the other people who would later have to trust in him to come to eternal life.”
If we acknowledge Christ as the chief reason while we live, we are expected to exhibit his attitudes. Our lives must be full evidence of the Lord’s presence if we truly believe that he lives in us. By our lifestyle, we should strive demonstrate who lives within us.
“Jesus said to his disciples: There is no sound tree that produces rotten fruit, nor again a rotten tree that produces sound fruit. For every tree can be told by its own fruit.”
Saints Cornelius, Pope, and Cyprian, Bishop demonstrated their faith in God by standing firm in the face of persecution.
Despite the storms that may test our Christian faith, may we stand firm, unwavering, and continuously manifest the life we have discovered in Christ. Amen
