💖 HOMILY - JULY 17 💖

First Reading - Isaiah 10:5-7,13-16

Gospel - Matthew 11:25-27

The rector in my theologate often reminded us that our well-built body and numerous secured degrees could be rendered meaningless with a single bout of illness. His point was clear: we should not flaunt or brag about our great wealth or achievements, as they are temporary. What truly matters is our humble life before God. The readings of the day invite us to humble ourselves before God and allow Him to reveal Himself to us.

The first reading demonstrates the pride of Assyria and the prophecy of its consequent destruction. It shows that Assyria's victory over the kingdom of Samaria and part of Judah was willed by God as punishment for Samaria's idolatry and sins. However, Assyria boasted of its victory and attributed it to its own power and strength, which angered God. As a result, God promises destruction for the proud kingdom of Assyria. This passage reminds us to acknowledge God's supremacy and maintain humility before Him in all things.

The Gospel reading of the day exalts little children because God has revealed Himself to them. In Jewish culture, children are seen as dependent on their parents, symbolizing humility. When Jesus exalts children, He refers to the dependence of people on God and their humble life. Thus, God has revealed Himself in Jesus to those who are humble enough to accept Him as the Messiah. This revelation is hidden from the learned and wise, who are often seen as proud and arrogant.

Dear friends, pride and arrogance can easily creep into our lives when we see success and achievements. While it is good to take pride in our accomplishments, we must never forget God in the process. We should walk humbly before God in both success and adversity. God blesses the humble but hates the proud-hearted. We must remember that everything we have is from God. As the Magnificat says, "God exalts the lowly (humble) and thwarts the path of the proud." Our humble acknowledgment of God in our lives, coupled with gratitude, will always please Him, while pride and arrogance will distance us from Him.

May God help us remain humble in every circumstance of our lives.