💖 HOMILY - JANUARY 27 💖

First Reading - Hebrews 9:15,24-28 

Gospel - Mark 3:22-30

An empty heart and mind are like open doors waiting to be filled. If not filled with good, they become vulnerable to negativity and harmful influences. The readings today challenge us to actively fill our lives with God’s presence, leaving no room for the forces of evil to take root.  

In the first reading, we are reminded of the power of Christ’s sacrifice. The author of Hebrews contrasts the repeated sacrifices of the Old Covenant with the singular, definitive act of Christ shedding His blood. This act of self-giving does not merely cover sin; it cleanses and transforms, offering us an enduring connection to God. It emphasizes that Christ’s sacrifice establishes a new and unbreakable covenant—a promise of grace and renewal for those who turn to Him.  

In the Gospel, Jesus confronts accusations that He is casting out demons by the power of Satan. His response is both logical and profound. A kingdom divided against itself cannot stand. Evil cannot fight against evil, just as light cannot extinguish light. Jesus asserts that it is by the power of God that He casts out demons, symbolizing the victory of divine power over evil. He warns against blaspheming the Holy Spirit, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and embracing God’s work in our lives.  

These passages urge us to reflect on the forces at work in our lives. We cannot remain neutral. An empty heart will not stay empty for long; it will be filled either by the Spirit of God or by the influences of darkness. The question we must ask ourselves is: what are we allowing to take root in our lives?  

To keep our hearts and minds filled with God’s presence, we need intentional practices. Daily prayer and meditation on God’s Word are not just spiritual exercises but defenses that guard our souls. The Word of God is a powerful weapon against negativity, temptation, and despair. It illuminates our paths and strengthens us in moments of weakness.  

We also need to make room for the Holy Spirit by practicing kindness, forgiveness, and love. Every act of goodness is a way of inviting God’s presence into our lives and pushing out the forces of darkness. Even small gestures, like a word of encouragement or a moment of gratitude, can transform our hearts and the environment around us.  

Moreover, we must stay vigilant. Evil often enters subtly, through small compromises or moments of neglect. It is not enough to avoid what is wrong; we must actively pursue what is right. By cultivating positive habits and surrounding ourselves with people and influences that inspire faith, we make it harder for negativity to take hold.  

Jesus shows us that with God’s power, we can overcome any evil that threatens us. But this victory requires our cooperation. We must choose to fill our lives with His presence, leaving no space for anything contrary to His will.  

Let us pray today for the grace to be vigilant and proactive in our spiritual journey. May we allow God to take His rightful place in our lives, filling us with His Spirit so that we may overcome all that opposes His goodness. May our lives reflect His light and inspire others to seek Him.