HOMILY OF THURSDAY OF THE 3RD WEEK OF EASTER YEAR B
Acts 8:26-40, John 6:44-51
THEME: WHEN GOD MEETS US HALF-WAY: THE FATE OF THE ETHIOPIAN EUNUCH
For his readiness to worship, the Lord sent Philip to the Ethiopian Eunuch. And in his simplicity, he allowed himself to be taught, that in a moment of catechesis, he was able to grasp the basic truth about Christ. This instantly merited him the privilege of being baptised.
Baptism is a heart thing. We can be sacramentalized; knowing the rudiments of the faith but lack the grace of a new life. Baptism is more than satisfying the rule of attendance. God sees the heart of those who really want him and draws them closer to himself at his proper time. That is, when they have made themselves worthy of his life.
Moreover, what we do as preachers is simply to arouse the hunger for God in people. He converts his people. However, the fruit of an authentic evangelisation is evident in the joy of a new convert and the readiness with which he or she submit himself or herself to the works of God.
The Eunuch enjoyed this great privilege of divine arrangement because of his hunger for God. It is those who are truly hungry that food can satisfy. If we are filled and still long for food, we are simply seeking pleasure. Food is meant to satisfy hunger. Like dear that yearn for running stream, may our souls long for God.
Jesus is the Bread of Life. He will wait for those who are drawn to him. Let us pray that we are burning for true hunger for God that he may fill us with his presence and satisfy us with his heavenly bread.
May the good Lord satisfy the desires of our hearts. Through us, may others be drawn to him, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
