💖 HOMILY - NOVEMBER 21 💖

First Reading - Apocalypse 5:1-10 

Gospel - Luke 19:41-44

One of the most painful experiences in life is to miss an opportunity and later realize what could have been done differently. Such missed chances often leave us with regret, knowing we cannot go back and undo the past. Yet, while we cannot revisit missed opportunities, we can make a conscious decision to recognize and seize the opportunities that come our way moving forward. This holds true not just in our personal lives but, more importantly, in our spiritual journey. Today's readings call us to fix our eyes on Jesus, our victorious King, who restores the grace we may have lost.

In the Gospel, we are confronted with a sobering message. Jesus laments over Jerusalem, foretelling its destruction. This tragic fate comes upon the city because its people failed to recognize the opportunities God had given them—first through the prophets and finally through the coming of Jesus Himself. Despite His teachings, miracles, and presence, they largely rejected Him. Their hardened hearts and refusal to accept the salvation Jesus offered led to their downfall. Jesus described the destruction as a consequence of their failure to recognize "the time of their visitation." Jerusalem had shut its doors, and its people had closed their hearts to the Redeemer.

The first reading, however, offers a ray of hope. It speaks of the victorious Lamb who restores what was lost—our salvation. The Lamb, though slain, stands triumphant, reminding us that through His sacrifice, we are offered redemption and grace. This image is a powerful source of hope and consolation, assuring us that no matter how many opportunities we may have missed, God still offers us a path to salvation through Jesus.

Dear friends, while we may have missed many chances in life, missing the opportunity for salvation is a tragedy we cannot afford. Reflect on the pain caused by missed chances in your life. Now imagine how much greater the sorrow would be if we missed the ultimate purpose of life—eternal union with God. But God, in His mercy, has given us hope in Jesus. He offers us opportunities every day to grow closer to Him and embrace the salvation He freely gives.

How, then, can we ensure that we do not miss this greatest opportunity?

Firstly, by remaining attentive to the ways God speaks to us in our daily lives. He communicates through events, challenges, and even failures. These moments are not meant to discourage us but to teach and guide us. If we approach them with open hearts and a willingness to learn, we will recognize the hand of God shaping our path.

Secondly, by immersing ourselves in the Scriptures. The Word of God is not just a relic of the past; it is alive and active today. Its truths and principles are timeless, offering guidance, comfort, and direction. Let us make time to meditate on Scripture, allowing it to enlighten our minds and transform our hearts.

As we journey through life, let us ask God for the grace to recognize and embrace the opportunities He places before us. May we never take for granted the chance to grow in holiness, deepen our faith, and live out our calling as disciples of Christ. Let us not miss the opportunity of salvation, for it is the greatest gift we can ever receive. Amen.