Readings: 1 Cor. 9:16-19,22-27, Ps. 84:3-6,12, Luke 6:39-42
“Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit?” (Luke 6:39)
St. Paul’s success as a great evangelizer came from the fact that he did not simply preach; he let his preaching affect his own life. That is to say, he practised what he preached. He was not like the hypocrites Jesus strongly condemned.
The best form of preaching is preaching that does not involve words. Jesus says, if you want to help your brother remove the speck in his eye, first remove the log in your eye so you can see clearly to help your brother. Good preaching begins with an examination of conscience. What good will it be to help others achieve heaven only to end up in hell yourself?
St. Paul says: “If I preach the Gospel, that gives me no ground for boasting.” So, as I preach, I must exercise great self-control, like an athlete who disciplines himself to win the prize. I must ensure I do not fall into the same sins I preach about. As such, “I pommel my body and subdue it, lest after preaching to others I should be disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:27)
A blind man cannot lead a blind man. To be a good leader, one must be above his followers. You must have a vision, see the future you intend to create, and ensure your followers see it. You cannot be a good leader if you cannot see beyond your followers. Perhaps this explains our situation in this country.
A good leader should see beyond his followers, even spiritually. Do you know why Jesus made Peter the head of the apostles? When Jesus asked about His identity, only Peter heard from the Holy Spirit. Jesus said: “Flesh and blood have not revealed this to you but my Father in heaven.” (Matthew 16:17). Do you head any organisation in the church? Don’t joke with your prayers lest, in your blindness, the devil makes you his instrument.
Let us pray: O God, by whom we are redeemed and receive adoption, look graciously upon your beloved sons and daughters, that those who believe in Christ may receive true freedom and an everlasting inheritance. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Friday of week 23 in Ordinary Time. Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: 1 Cor. 9:16-19,22-27, Ps. 84:3-6,12, Luke 6:39-42)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu