Readings: 1 Timothy 1:15-17, Ps. 113:1-7, Luke 6:43-49
“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice. He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock.” (Luke 6:46-47)
Many Christians today are like Herod, who loved to listen to John the Baptist preach but never adhered to his message. We approach God’s words like entertainment. While listening to a good sermon in church (or through various platforms), we are very emotional; we cry, we stand on our feet, we clap, we shout (for instance, we say, “ride on preacher”, “Yes”, “Word” etc.), but the moment the sermon ends, we return to square one. We leave the church or end the service with a stronger determination to do evil.
Jesus asked a question in today’s Gospel passage, “What is the essence of listening to me or calling me fervently in prayer, ‘Lord, Lord’ when you are not letting your light shine?” It’s as if we have turned God into an ATM; we only want to take, not give. Even the ATM doesn’t work without inserting our card. How can you claim to be friends with God if you don’t practice His words?
Jesus says that those who listen and never practice are like people who build houses without digging a solid foundation. They are like fair-weather friends. When the going gets tough, they reveal their true colours. Such Christians cannot withstand trials. They are quick to move from church to church; they don’t mind entering a demonic shrine in search of solutions. They never had any relationship with God; they were only “using” God. Like a house that falls under pressure, their faith collapses when it faces storms. They are ready to switch to the devil because they never practised God’s word.
Practising God’s words is like planting a tree. The more you do what the word of God says, the more you become used to it. Your natural mode of thinking and acting aligns with God’s expectations. Hence, Jesus says, “A good man, out of the good treasure of his heart, produces good.” That treasure is a combination of good deeds which have been practised over a very long time. You cannot become a saint overnight. You cannot suddenly repent from sin; you must first erect a solid foundation through practice. The saying is true: “Practice (not words) makes perfect.”
On the other hand, building a solid foundation requires selecting your thoughts. How often do you meditate on God’s words? Jesus says, “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” What constitutes the “abundance” of your heart? Bible verses? Lives of Saints? Sports news? Politics? Celebrity gossip? Stock Market and Crypto Updates? Immorality? How often do you look inwards (examine your conscience)?
St. Paul is an example of one who examined his conscience. This is why he declared himself the worst of sinners in today’s first reading. If you consider yourself to be good, you have yet to examine your conscience. Start selecting your thoughts; stop treating your mind like a garbage bin. Reduce your time spent on social media, as numerous content creators are willing to post anything for virality, even if their claims are false. Spend that time reading the Bible. St. Paul says: “Whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8).
Today, we remember St. John Chrysostom, who was born around 344 in Antioch to devoted Christian parents. In 374, he chose the solitary life of an anchorite, but due to health problems, he returned to Antioch in 386 and was ordained as a priest. By 398, John rose to become the Archbishop of Constantinople, emerging as a leading figure in the Church. His honest and powerful sermons, however, sparked controversy, especially with Empress Eudoxia, leading to his exile through a manipulated council. St. John Chrysostom’s life concluded on 14 September 407, during his last exile. His lasting legacy as a masterful speaker and a dedicated leader continues to inspire us today.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, fill our hearts with divine treasures and help us practice your word. 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 John Chrysostom, Bishop, Doctor. Liturgical Colour: White. Bible Study: 1 Timothy 1:15-17, Ps. 113:1-7, Luke 6:43-49)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu