DAILY HOMILIES

ust as Andrew introduced Peter to Jesus, the Feast of St. Andrew stands at such a strategic point in the Church’s calendar as he continues to be the one introducing the Church as a whole to the Advent Season; his feast is like the Calendar Marker that reminds us of the need to start preparing for the Baby Jesus.

There is an African proverb that says, if a child washes his hands very well, he would be invited to seat at the table and eat with elders. In other words, if we are humble, regardless of our size and status, we would be granted access to high places.

The Centurion’s action teaches us an important lesson in caring for our workers. The Centurion was in charge of a hundred soldiers yet he found time to come looking for Jesus because of one servant; not even his son or a soldier. How lucky this servant was to have had such a good master. Can those working for me say the same about me?

It is not enough that we hang decorations, lights and pictures of Jesus this season, let us hang the virtues of Christ, chief among which are forgiveness and mercy. Putting up fancy lights is very expensive, not many can afford these beautiful lights but there is another light that cost nothing and is available for all; it is the light of good deeds.

Jesus says: “Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”

The book of Revelations may appear very difficult to understand but the message is very clear – God will judge the world and it is only those whose names are found in the book of life that will eventually merit heaven.

Let us not be overcome by the pervasive evil around us. If you cannot beat them, don’t join them. Continue to raise your heads high in virtue and never give in to sin because your redemption is close at hand.

The sea of glass mingled with fire represents the torture, pains, hardships, sacrifices, sweat, tears, and blood of Christians who were being slaughtered under the reign of Emperor Diocletian (the beast). John was assuring his readers of eventual redemption and glory if only they remained steadfast in the faith.

There is so much good inside of you. If you search deep enough, you will discover that you are more than capable of goodness. As one author noted, it is our light, not our darkness that frightens us.

To the surprise of everyone, Jesus praised this woman for giving the highest because while others gave only tiny bits of what they had, this woman gave everything she had.

Today, we move around our streets shamelessly singing and dancing, rubbing ourselves on the ground in exultation of Christ but what happens when we return home? Do you allow Christ to reign in your living rooms, in your business place, in your sense of fashion, in your daily interactions with others?

One thing we must learn about this experience is that truth is not limited to what you believe alone. The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection, yet it is true that we shall all rise from the dead. Create an open mind that is ready to listen to others and learn.