💖 HOMILY - OCTOBER 1 💖

First Reading - Nehemiah 2:1-8 

Gospel - Luke 9:57-62

Every great journey begins with a “yes.” Whether it is building a family, starting a mission, or following a dream, there comes a moment when we must take a decisive step forward, even when the path is uncertain. Today’s readings place before us this challenge of commitment — to trust God enough to step out in faith and give Him our full “yes.”

In the first reading, Nehemiah stands before King Artaxerxes with a heavy heart for Jerusalem. He could have remained silent, safe, and comfortable in the palace. Yet he takes a risk: he asks the king for permission and resources to rebuild the city of his ancestors. It was a bold act of courage, born from faith in God’s plan. His example teaches us that renewal and rebuilding begin when we dare to step forward with trust.

In the Gospel, Jesus meets three people who express their desire to follow Him. But each one hesitates, held back by excuses or divided priorities. Jesus responds with striking clarity: following Him requires total commitment. “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.” Discipleship cannot be half-hearted. It demands focus, courage, and a willingness to put Christ above everything else.

Dear friends, true discipleship is not about comfort but commitment. Like Nehemiah, we must be willing to leave behind fear and hesitation and act boldly for God’s mission. Like the followers in the Gospel, we must examine our hearts: what excuses or attachments are holding us back from giving Christ our all?

Practically, this means putting God first in our daily choices — in how we spend our time, in how we serve others, and in how we witness to our faith. It may mean letting go of distractions, comfort zones, or even certain fears. But when we take that step of faith, we discover that God provides — just as He gave Nehemiah favor with the king, He equips us for every mission He entrusts to us.

Today Christ is asking us: “Will you follow Me without looking back?” May we answer with courage and trust, offering Him not a half-hearted commitment but a wholehearted “yes.” For when we do, God can rebuild not only our lives but also the lives of those around us through us.