💖 HOMILY - DECEMBER 3 💖

First Reading - Ezekiel 3:17-21 

Second Reading - 1 Corinthians 9:16-19,22-23

Gospel - Mark 16:15-20

In life, we often hear the phrase, "With great power comes great responsibility." Today’s readings remind us that as Christians, we are entrusted with the great responsibility of sharing the Gospel, not out of obligation but out of love for God and His people. This responsibility is not just for a chosen few but for everyone who believes in Christ and has experienced His love.  

In the first reading, God appoints Ezekiel as a watchman over Israel. His task is to warn the people, calling them to turn away from sin and return to God. The role of a watchman is critical because the lives of others depend on his vigilance. If Ezekiel fails to speak out, he shares responsibility for their downfall. This reminds us that as Christians, we too are called to be spiritual watchmen in our communities, bearing the responsibility to guide, encourage, and warn others lovingly.  

In the second reading, St. Paul reflects on his mission to preach the Gospel. For Paul, sharing the Gospel is not a matter of personal pride or gain but an unavoidable calling—a stewardship entrusted to him by God. Paul’s approach is marked by humility and adaptability. He becomes “all things to all people” so that he might save some. This teaches us that evangelization requires us to meet people where they are, to understand their struggles, and to share the Good News in a way that resonates with their hearts.  

The Gospel recounts Jesus’ final command to His disciples: “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.” This Great Commission is a universal call, reminding us that our mission extends beyond our comfort zones. Jesus promises to accompany His disciples with signs and wonders, affirming that evangelization is not our work alone—it is God working through us.  

Dear friends, these readings challenge us to examine our commitment to evangelization. Have we been faithful watchmen, alert and attentive to the spiritual needs of others? Do we approach our mission with the selfless dedication of St. Paul, willing to make sacrifices for the sake of the Gospel?  

Proclaiming the Gospel doesn’t always mean preaching from a pulpit. It can be as simple as living a life of integrity, showing compassion, and being a witness of Christ’s love through our actions. The world today is yearning for hope and truth, and we, as followers of Christ, have the privilege of bringing that hope to others.  

Let us take inspiration from today’s readings and renew our commitment to the mission of Christ. Let us be faithful watchmen, vigilant and compassionate. Let us imitate St. Paul, reaching out to others with humility and love. And let us trust in Jesus’ promise to be with us as we proclaim His Gospel, confident that He will work through us to bring His light to the world.  

May God grant us the courage to embrace this mission wholeheartedly, the wisdom to share His truth effectively, and the grace to be faithful witnesses of His love. Amen.