9.24.24 Homily

In the Gospel, Jesus emphasizes that true family is not just about blood relations but about those who hear and act on God's word. When told that his mother and brothers wanted to see him, he pointed out that anyone who follows God's teachings is part of his family. This illustrates that Mary’s greatness lies in her faith and willingness to accept God’s message, even before Jesus was born. Saint Augustine noted that Mary conceived God’s word in her heart through her faith long before she conceived him physically. Therefore, the essence of family in spiritual terms extends beyond mere biological ties and reflects a deeper connection through faith and action.

Mary exemplifies true discipleship by fully embracing and acting upon God's word, showcasing the fruitfulness that comes from such faith. Just like her, we are called to make God's commands our own and to live them with joy and sincerity. It's essential to engage with His teachings deeply, allowing them to transform our hearts and guide our actions. By doing so, we not only honor our spiritual family but also align ourselves with the divine purpose for which we were created. This journey requires intention, discernment, and a commitment to applying His law in all aspects of our lives, finding true fulfillment in the process. Ultimately, we are reminded that God's word is not just for hearing but for embodying, leading us to a joyful and authentic relationship with Him.

Doing what is right and just is more important to God than making sacrifices through our own terms. We often think we can earn favor through our actions while ignoring His word. True obedience means listening to God and striving to act according to His teachings, even when it is difficult. St. Paul shows us that struggle is real, but we must seek to do good. Building our lives on God's truth is like building a house on rock; it can withstand life's challenges. In contrast, ignoring His word is like constructing a house on sand, which will eventually crumble under pressure. Therefore, acting on God's guidance is crucial for a solid foundation in life.

Building our lives on the teachings of God is essential, like constructing a strong house on rock instead of fragile sand. When we truly listen to God's word and let it guide us, we not only strengthen ourselves individually but also create a loving and united community. Jesus calls us to be His family by obeying His teachings, showing that we are connected by our shared commitment to His message. Our actions should reflect our understanding of God's word, so much so that people notice our faith in the way we live. This unity in faith and practice allows us to fulfill Jesus' prayer for oneness, bringing us closer to each other and to God. Through our combined obedience to His word, we can build genuine love and communion, living examples of the divine connection we share.

In a Catholic high school where he served, a priest observed a troubling divide among faculty and students regarding church teachings. Many faculty members disregarded the teachings, influencing students to do the same. When challenged to achieve unity within the school, the priest emphasized the importance of grounding their beliefs in the Word of God and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, suggesting that true unity can only come from embracing these foundations. His call for adherence to the gospel received mixed reactions; while some supported him, others were angered, illustrating the struggle that many face when confronted with the necessity of living out their faith sincerely and authentically. Without a commitment to core teachings, any sense of community would be merely superficial and unsustainable.

Conflicts within the church, and even in families, often arise from people choosing to ignore or obey the Word of God. This division is highlighted in gatherings like the pro-life mass or National Eucharistic Congress, where shared beliefs foster unity among participants. History shows that when faithful individuals, like Martin Luther, witnessed disobedience to scripture, they sought change. In contrast, true communion with God and each other comes from commitment to live by His word, rather than selectively following parts that suit personal beliefs. Following the example of figures like Our Lady can guide individuals to strive for a faith that emphasizes obedience and togetherness rather than division, reinforcing the importance of shared values in maintaining the stronger bonds within the church and its participants.

Mary, as the Mother of Mercy, embodies the essence of mercy in every aspect of her life. From her acceptance of God's will at the Annunciation to interceding for us at Calvary, she demonstrates what it means to live in and act out of mercy. Her Magnificat reflects God’s promise of mercy to all generations, showcasing her deep understanding and appreciation for this profound gift. By following her example, we are encouraged to embrace mercy, meditate on God's words, and extend kindness to others. We must recognize that mercy is a law we should live by, urging us to treat others with compassion, just as we hope to receive mercy in our own lives. As we strive to walk this path of mercy, we can find strength and inspiration in Mary's experiences and prayers, fostering a deeper relationship with God and each other through acts of kindness and understanding.

In our celebration of Mass, we first turn to the Word of God to prepare our hearts before receiving the Eucharist. This preparation helps us understand and appreciate the gift of Jesus' body and blood, which represents His mercy and love for us. It's a journey of faith that fosters a strong family bond in Christ. The speaker reflects on a personal milestone, celebrating 36 years of daily communion with the Lord. This consistent experience has deepened their gratitude and reliance on God's mercy. Every day, we gather as a community to remember Jesus and ask the Holy Spirit to unite us as one body and one family, embracing the grace given to us through Him. This sacred time nourishes our spiritual hunger and strengthens our bond with each other and with God.