HOMILY OF TUESDAY OF THE 26TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Zechariah 8:20-23, Luke 9:51-56
THEME; THE IMPORTANCE OF TOLERANCE: BUILDING HARMONY IN A DIVERSE WORLD
In an increasingly diverse world divided by religion, ethnic or tribal sentiment, tolerance is needed to foster unity and understanding among different cultures and beliefs. Tolerance helps us to open dialogue, empathy, and respect, creating a more harmonious and accepting global community.
Jesus demonstrated in today’s gospel that he came to save humanity and not just the Jews alone. Though the Jews and the Samaritans do not have anything in common, Jesus resolved to pass through their town on his way to Jerusalem. Unfortunately, the people refused to make a way for him. The disciples asked the Lord, “Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to burn them up?’ But he turned and rebuked them, and they went off to another village.”
Jesus would not encourage us to use our power to oppress others even though they are opposed to our ways and intent. He wants us to be tolerant despite the oppositions we may get from our rivals. That was why he rebuked his disciples who opted to rain down fire on the Samaritans.
At times, we can ignore those who prove snare to us instead of playing the game of tit for tat with them.
May the grace f the Lord be enough for us that we may be agents of harmony in our community. Amen.
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