Readings: Wisdom 13:1-9, Ps. 19:2-3, 4, Luke 17:26-37
“For all men who were ignorant of God were foolish by nature, and they were unable from the good things that are seen to know him who exists, nor did they recognise the craftsman while paying heed to his works.” (Wisdom 13:1)
In today’s world, many people do not believe in the existence of God. In Nigeria, that number is rising rapidly. Due to the hardships faced by the population because of our greedy leaders, many have turned to religion for a solution, only to fall into the hands of charlatans – wolves in sheep’s clothing.
Do not be misled; there is no miracle money when you do not work and no miracle job if you never submit your application or are not qualified. Giving all you have as seed in the church will not increase your riches. If all you want is how to make more money, you need more than just church attendance. Jesus came to lead us to heaven, not merely to put more money in our pockets. He fed the hungry twice, but it was only to lead them to the Eucharist.
On the other hand, some see themselves as too enlightened and wise to believe in God’s existence. How can you prove that God has never done anything for you? Would you be alive if God withdrew your breath? Today’s first reading from the Book of Wisdom is addressed to such. Honestly, it is foolish to say there is no God.
Merely observing our surroundings shows us that without the work of an intelligent being, there would be no order in nature. Today’s responsorial psalm proclaims: “The heavens declare the glory of God.” St. Paul writes, “For what can be known about God is plain to them because God has shown it to them. Ever since the world’s creation, his invisible nature, namely, his eternal power and deity, has been perceived in the things made. So, they are without excuse.” (Romans 1:19-21). If you can see the created universe, you are without excuse to say you haven’t seen the one who put everything in place.
Today’s first reading also addresses persons who worship idols. They supposed that either fire, or wind, or swift air, or the circle of the stars, or turbulent water, or the luminaries of heaven were the gods that rule the world. If, through delight in the beauty of these things, men assumed them to be gods, let them know how much better than these is their Lord, for the author of beauty created them.
On a sad note, there are Christians who claim to believe in God, yet are more afraid of the power of idols than of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Some try to combine traditional African religion with their Christian faith. For them, when God doesn’t grant their prayers on time, they can fall back on these gods as backup. We must understand there is no alternative to God. It is very unwise to assume that a tree or a carved stone (created by God) deserves your worship.
In our Gospel reading, Jesus reminds us that we do not know the day or the hour when we will be called to account for our lives. Just as it is foolish to deny God’s existence, it is equally unwise to disregard God’s instructions. It is not enough to believe in God’s existence; faith must guide our daily choices. Many Christians are practical atheists; on Sunday, they behave like believers, but on other days, they live as if there is no God. Living as if your life belongs solely to you (and you can do whatever you like) is unwise.
Jesus says, “As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be in the days of the Son of man. They ate, they drank, they married, they were given in marriage, until the day when Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all. Likewise, as it was in the days of Lot— they ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built, but on the day when Lot went out from Sodom, fire and brimstone rained from heaven and destroyed them all.”
Never assume you will have time to repent and reconcile with God. Today is all you have left. There will never be a day known as “tomorrow.” While you are busy achieving your life’s goals of education, marriage, business, etc., do not relegate God to the background. Seek Him first, and everything else will fall in place. (cf. Matthew 6:33)
Let us pray: Almighty and merciful God, graciously keep from us all adversity, so that, unhindered in mind and body alike, we may pursue in freedom of heart the things that are yours. 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. (Friday of week 32 in Ordinary Time, Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Wisdom 13:1-9, Ps. 19:2-3, 4, Luke 17:26-37)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu