DAILY HOMILIES #elijah

What does it take to be an Elijah today? Jesus answers this question in today’s Gospel passage; simply put, NO COMPROMISE. There are many Christians who begin very well, they are so devoted to God and aspire for heaven but as time goes on, they begin to bend little by little. You hear things like, “After all, God understands, it is not that bad; it is just a little lie.” A little this, a little that, and like water dripping from a leaking bucket, we soon become dry and begin to align with the world.

You are light; you lead, not copy. You do not follow the trends, you create trends. Light bulbs do not need speakers, they speak by doing their jobs. They don’t pretend. If you turn a light bulb on, it would continue to shine even if no one is in the room. Stop living a fake Christian life – actions speak louder than words. Shine even if no one is clapping. The widow of Zarephath didn’t have much but she had faith. She obeyed the command of Elijah even when it didn’t make sense and God rewarded her faith. Do you believe there is any value in being salt of the earth and light of the world today? Are you willing to obey God when it seems as if you have nothing to live on? Would you rather chase money or chase holiness? The choice is yours to make.

When you seek first God’s Kingdom and prioritize righteousness, you may not become rich and famous in the eyes of the world but Jesus says you will find true inner satisfaction and peace. When you mourn over the sinfulness and evil pervading our world and refuse to be indifferent, Jesus says you will find true comfort.

“No prophet is acceptable in his own country” In other words: Why do you always look down on what is yours? It is because of this attitude that Elijah was sent to Zarephath. There were many lepers in your town but none of them was healed except Naaman the Syrian.”

Can we then say that John the Baptist is a reincarnation of Elijah? Certainly No. John the Baptist was completely different from Elijah, but with the kind of life he lived, he became a perfect representation of Elijah and helped to fulfill the prophecy about the return of Elijah.

The crowd wanted bread but Jesus was offering the Holy Eucharist. Imagine the huge difference in value. Elijah wanted food and water but God removed his hunger and tiredness for a whole forty days. Imagine the huge difference. Flee from bitterness, trust God! He surely has something better ahead of you.

Dear friends, do not make the mistake of the people of Nazareth. Be content with what is yours. Value your own. Value the Church, understand its sacraments. Deepen your faith.

Rather than arguing about re-incarnation, we should consider the fact that our readings today have presented us with two role models, John the Baptist and Elijah. By emulating their virtues and living by the principles they represent, we become John the Baptists and Elijahs of our time. By directing people to repent from their sins and turn away from false gods, we literally prepare the way for the celebration of Christmas