HOMILY OF WEDNESDAY OF THE 31ST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR A
ST CHARLES BORROMEO, Bishop [Memorial]
Born in Arona in Lombardy in the year 1538. After obtaining his doctorate in both civil and canon law he was created a cardinal by his uncle Pius IV and was chosen to be bishop of Milan. He became a true shepherd of his flock and frequently went around his diocese, called synods, made wise regulations for the goods of souls, and worked for the good of Christian morality. H died on 3November in the year 1584. [Daily Missal page 382*]
Phil 2:12-18, Luke 14:25-33
To follow Jesus is to follow the way of the cross. It takes a lot to tread the rugged road that leads to the foot of the accursed tree. One must count the cost and be able to have a glance of what one will miss or left behind to make such a demanding journey.
Many people stop their life journey half-way because; they never knew what it entails to sail to the end. Therefore, every step we take must be calculated with careful reflection.
The Lord said, “If any one comes to me and does not hate his father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.” Luke 14:26.
All we have are all gifts from God. The Lord is saying that, we must give the best of our attention to the gifts and forget the giver. We must put God first and be ready to fulfil all his demands. Though his demands may seem to be too great, we must remember that he is the one who is at work in us, both to will and to work for his own good pleasure. Phil 2:13. When we put him first, he will perfect our ways. When he gives the task, he gives the grace.
Following the good example of St Charles Borromeo, let us renew our courage in following the ways of the Lord. May all our efforts be sown for an eternal harvest through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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