💖 HOMILY - JULY 31 💖

First Reading - Jeremiah 15:10,16-21

Gospel - Matthew 13:44-46

Many things and many people play important roles in our lives. Some hold greater significance, while others are less critical. We prioritize them based on their importance. Today’s readings urge us to recognize the Kingdom of Heaven as the ultimate priority in our lives, for its significance surpasses all else.

The first reading is a poignant expression of the prophet Jeremiah's struggles. It reveals his internal conflict and deep commitment as he reflects on his prophetic mission. Despite the challenges and persecution he faces, Jeremiah finds joy in being chosen by God. His reflections highlight the profound value he places on his relationship with the Lord and the divine mission entrusted to him.

In the gospel, Jesus presents two parables that illustrate the incomparable worth of the Kingdom of Heaven. He compares it to a hidden treasure and a priceless pearl. In both parables, the individuals who discover these treasures sell everything they have to acquire them. These stories underscore that the Kingdom of Heaven is of supreme importance, far surpassing any material value.

Dear friends, Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI, in his book "Jesus of Nazareth," explains that the Kingdom of Heaven is essentially Jesus Himself. Therefore, Christ should hold the foremost place in our lives. Recognizing Christ’s supreme value means placing all other things in proper perspective. Those who truly understand this will find that their lives reflect this divine priority, shining through every circumstance.

Today we celebrate the feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola, a saint who with unwavering faith devoted his life for the diffusion of the gospel all throughout the world, he reminds us of the power of prioritizing Christ. He offers a compelling example of finding joy in discovering Jesus as the first priority in his life. During his convalescence from a severe battle injury, Ignatius endured great physical pain and a lengthy recovery period. Despite his circumstances, he maintained a remarkable spiritual perspective.

While in recovery, Ignatius experienced a profound transformation. He had previously been a soldier with ambitions for glory and honor, but his injury and subsequent readings on the lives of saints shifted his focus toward a spiritual path to discover real treasure in Jesus. Let's never cease, like St. Ignatius, to find our treasure who is Jesus in the face of confusion and pain. Let's also remember that the lives of the saints stand as remarkable examples of real treasure in the person of Christ which inspired St. Ignatius and continues to inspire us today. Therefore, let's make a point of reading the lives of saints which could help us recognize our real treasure through their own lives.

May God guide us to make Jesus the ultimate treasure and pearl of our lives.