💖 HOMILY - SEPTEMBER 6 💖

First Reading - 1 Corinthians 4:1-5

Gospel - Luke 5:33-39

We often choose a product based on the brand associated with it, as the brand signifies the product’s quality. In a similar way, the readings of today invite us to improve the quality of our discipleship by being closely connected to Jesus.

In the first reading, St. Paul reminds us that our association with Christ should be reflected in how we act as stewards, entrusted with the mysteries of God. Paul emphasizes that our true worth as stewards is not evaluated by anyone but God Himself. He challenges us to be found worthy in God's sight, suggesting that our value as believers is not based on how others perceive us, but how God sees us. Therefore, we must live our lives in a way that aligns with God's expectations, not merely seeking the approval of others.

The Gospel continues this theme by addressing the question of what God expects from us. When asked about fasting, Jesus explains that there is a time and place for such practices. He indicates that His presence brings joy, which makes fasting inappropriate during that time. However, He notes that when He is no longer physically present with His disciples, fasting will become appropriate. Jesus teaches that the way to God is not through mere outward religious practices, but through a joyful and sincere relationship with Him as the bridegroom of the Church.

Additionally, Jesus uses the parables of the new garment and the new wineskin to emphasize the incompatibility of old religious practices (represented by the old garment and wineskin) with the new life He brings (represented by the new garment and wineskin). Through these parables, He reveals that the Kingdom of God, which He inaugurates, is not compatible with the old, ritualistic ways of scribal Judaism. Instead, those who believe in Him and follow His teachings enter into the new Kingdom.

Dear friends, we often place too much emphasis on external rituals in our Christian lives. Today's readings challenge us to recognize that such practices alone do not determine our belonging to God. As Paul points out, it is crucial to understand how God judges us. Jesus makes it clear that what matters most is our joyful association with Him and our obedience to His commandments. While rituals have their place, they are not the ultimate measure of our relationship with God. 

We are invited to examine ourselves: Do we truly belong to Jesus? Attending Mass and performing religious rituals are important, but they are not enough if we fail to live according to His teachings. True discipleship means following the path Jesus laid out for us—embodying the Beatitudes and living by His commandment to love. Let us strive to be true disciples by living as He has taught us to live, with joy, obedience, and love.