💖 HOMILY - NOVEMBER 7 💖

First Reading - Philippines 3:3-8

Gospel - Luke 15:1-10

In today’s world, the vast availability of information—especially through the internet, social media, and mass media—has made knowledge more accessible than ever. Society often values those who are well-informed, and having information can bring a certain level of recognition. However, today’s readings remind us that, as followers of Christ, we are called to move beyond simply knowing "about" Jesus. Instead, we are invited into a deeper, personal knowledge and intimacy with Him.

In the first reading, Paul emphasizes the supreme importance of knowing Christ. Writing to the Philippians, he contrasts true worship, which is inspired by the Spirit and grounded in a personal relationship with Jesus, with mere ritual practices that lack this depth. Paul references his own journey, noting how he once prided himself on his religious achievements—his circumcision, his strict observance of the Law, and his zeal. But he admits that all these practices, devoid of a personal knowledge of Christ, were ultimately of little value. It was only through truly knowing Christ that Paul discovered what matters most. He invites us to seek this same knowledge, an intimate, transformative relationship with Jesus that surpasses any outward practice or status.

In the Gospel, Jesus responds to the criticisms of the Pharisees and scribes through two beautiful parables: the lost sheep and the lost coin. Both parables illustrate the joy of restoration, as a shepherd goes in search of his lost sheep and a woman diligently looks for her lost coin. In these stories, the lost sheep and the lost coin represent people who are distanced from God. Jesus reveals that heaven rejoices over each person who turns back to God, just as the shepherd and the woman rejoice over finding what was lost. Remarkably, in both parables, it is the shepherd and the woman who take the initiative in the search. This highlights that repentance and conversion are not merely human efforts; they are also a gift of grace from God, who seeks us out and calls us back to Him.

Dear friends, these readings remind us that the grace of knowing God and the grace of being converted to Him are deeply intertwined. Knowing God is not simply accumulating facts or information about Him, but cultivating an intimate connection with Him. Paul’s experience reflects this: once he encountered Christ personally, he realized that any religious practice without genuine connection to God was empty. This invites us to examine our own lives and practices. Are our acts of faith—our prayers, devotions, and religious observances—rooted in a deep knowledge of Christ, or are they merely routines? Do our actions lead us to feel the true benefit of spiritual life, filling us with a sense of purpose and joy? Paul’s message is clear: true knowledge of Christ should inspire and influence every part of our lives, drawing us closer to what truly benefits our souls.

The knowledge of Christ also calls us to a transformation, a turning back to God. Through His parables, Jesus shows us that His mission on earth was to reach out to those who were lost, so they might come to know God. And He continues this mission today—through the Sacraments, the Church, and the Scriptures. Jesus’ life was dedicated to restoring people to God, a mission ultimately fulfilled on the cross. As members of the Church, we share in this mission; we are entrusted with the responsibility of bringing others to God. In doing so, we imitate Christ, who constantly seeks out and welcomes the lost.

May God grant us the grace to grow in a true knowledge of Him, deepening our relationship with Christ and transforming our lives in His love. May this knowledge renew us each day, drawing us ever closer to the heart of God.