9.30.24 Homily

To achieve true greatness, we need to reshape our understanding and ambitions in life. Following Jesus' teachings, greatness doesn't come from worldly status or accomplishments, but from receiving God’s gifts and serving others, including the least among us, like children. Greatness is about humility, recognizing that we should welcome everyone God sends our way and appreciating them without expecting anything in return. Instead of striving for recognition, we must focus on accepting these divine gifts that can guide us toward eternal greatness in God’s kingdom. It’s not about taking control or dominance, but about receiving gracefully what God intended for our growth, which can lead to a life rich in spiritual fulfillment and interconnectedness with others.

Receiving children, especially those who can't repay kindness, is a path to greatness in life. Parenting teaches us to love unconditionally, which connects us to Jesus' message. They emphasize the importance of valuing life and helping others instead of competing for status. True greatness comes from serving others and recognizing their worth, rather than seeking personal gain. In a time where child life is often disregarded, advocating for the unborn and valuing every child's life becomes crucial. Greatness lies in being a champion for life and supporting one another, rather than using Jesus’ teachings for self-promotion or competition.

To achieve true greatness, we must cultivate gratitude towards God and others instead of letting jealousy hold us back. Everyone has unique gifts worthy of appreciation. Additionally, embracing suffering as part of our journey is essential; just as Job demonstrated, accepting both blessings and hardships helps us grow closer to God and shapes us into his image. Greatness involves faithfulness not just in good times, but also during trials and suffering, as they ultimately enrich our lives. We need to open our hearts to both joyous and painful experiences, understanding that both come from God for our ultimate good. This duality is crucial in the quest for holiness and greatness, revealing the deeper meaning of our lives and the love of God. Ultimately, true greatness is a path paved with both joy and adversity. Embracing this helps us grow in faith and love, embodying the teachings of Christ.

Saint Jerome's life exemplifies the transformative power of suffering and the need to realign our lives towards God's purpose. After facing personal crises, his passion for learning shifted from self-indulgence to devoting his mind to divine service. His temper and imperfections didn't prevent him from making significant contributions, such as translating the Bible into Latin, which endures today. His journey teaches us that through trials, we can discover our true calling and use our talents for a greater good. By embracing the challenges we face, we can grow in holiness and better reflect God's will in our lives.

Understanding Scripture is vital to truly knowing Christ. Many great saints, like St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas, became extraordinary because they immersed themselves in the Bible. By reading and memorizing Scripture, they deepened their faith and knowledge of God. Embracing Sacred Scripture allows us to encounter the divine more fully and become vessels of His presence, just as they did. Each time we engage with the Bible, we grow closer to God and recognize Him in our lives. Learning from the past, we should prioritize reading the Bible with the same enthusiasm as we would for a favorite book. Through powerful examples, like St. Jerome's profound devotion, we see that an intimate connection with God comes from receiving and understanding His Word. Let's strive to receive God through Scripture and in doing so, become reflections of His greatness in the world.