Readings: Romans 4:1-8, Ps. 32:1-2,5,11, Luke 12:1-7
“Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known.” (Luke 12:2)
A group of scientists once conducted an experiment on human psychology. Participants were given a simple task and instructed to report the number of times they failed to complete it. Unknown to the participants, the researchers were watching them through a two-way mirror. In the second round, the participants were given the same task to do; this time, the researchers placed a visible CCTV camera in the room. The researchers found that 90% of participants lied about their scores in the first round, but were all honest in the second round.
Why is it easy to exercise restraint when others are watching, yet when we are alone (or think no one is watching), we throw caution to the wind? This was the problem of scribes and Pharisees. Jesus told them: “Nothing is hidden that would not be uncovered… even the hairs of your head are all numbered.” Are there things I do in secret that I am ashamed of?
Even if you cannot see anyone looking at you, your deeds are seen by God, and they cannot be hidden forever. One comedian once said, “Live your life in a way that no one has to lie about your goodness after your death.” Avoid pretence. If you are too ashamed to do it or say it publicly, then don’t do it secretly. Do not keep skeletons in your cupboard. Do not be a hypocrite.
Jesus was not afraid to tell the scribes and Pharisees the truth. Jesus knew they would hate him for this, but He was ready to die. Hence, Jesus said: “Do not fear those who kill the body… fear God who alone can kill the body and also destroy the soul.” Do not be afraid of people. Do what is right, speak the truth, and avoid sin. God will protect you. Remember, “The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom.” (Sirach 1:14 & 20).
St. Paul tells us today that we are justified by faith. Abraham was considered a righteous man long before God gave humanity the Ten Commandments. If obedience to these commandments justifies a person, how was Abraham justified? It is by our faith that we are justified before God. However, having been justified by faith, God expects us to keep his commandments.
Obedience to God (carrying out good works) is not our payment to God, nor is it a bribe we give God to secure heaven. Our good works express our love and appreciation to God for the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for us. On the other hand, our good works primarily benefit us. If we choose to sin, we also destroy ourselves. The consequences of our choices are in the very decisions we make. It is better to live a righteous life than to be a hypocrite because, in the end, your secrets will sell you out, and you will not escape the punishment they attract.
Today, we remember St. Ignatius of Antioch. St. Ignatius of Antioch, also called Ignatius Theophorus, was a prominent early Christian writer and the Patriarch of Antioch. Celebrated as a saint in the Catholic Church, his feast day is observed on 17 October. Born around 35 AD, Ignatius became a follower of the Apostle John. He played a crucial role in the early Church by promoting unity among Christians and highlighting the significance of the Eucharist.
Ignatius is mainly remembered for the letters he wrote to various Christian communities while travelling to Rome, where he was martyred around 107 AD. His letters offer valuable insights into the beliefs and worship practices of Christians in the late 1st century. In them, Ignatius urged believers to stay faithful to the apostles’ teachings and to uphold unity under their bishops. He is well-known for saying, “Wherever the bishop appears, there let the people be; for wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church.”
St. Ignatius left a lasting impact through his support for the Church’s hierarchical structure and his firm opposition to false teachings. His martyrdom, where he was thrown to wild beasts in the Colosseum, stands as a powerful testament to his steadfast faith and dedication to Christ. As a guardian of Church unity, St. Ignatius of Antioch continues to inspire Christians with his example of faithful discipleship and bravery. His teachings still speak to believers around the world, encouraging them to live faithfully and harmoniously within the body of Christ.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, free us from falsehood and hypocrisy. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop, Martyr. Liturgical Colour: Red. Bible Study: Romans 4:1-8, Ps. 32:1-2,5,11, Luke 12:1-7)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu