💖 HOMILY - SEPTEMBER 26 💖

First Reading - Haggai 1:15-2:9

Gospel - Luke 9:18-22

Have you ever walked into a place under construction? There are piles of rubble, half-built walls, noise, and dust everywhere. It’s hard to imagine the finished product. Yet the architect sees beyond the mess — he envisions the beauty that will stand when the work is done.

This is what we encounter in today’s first reading. The people of Israel looked at the ruins of the Temple and felt discouraged. Compared to its former glory, their work seemed small and unimpressive. But through the prophet Haggai, God speaks words of encouragement: “Take courage… work, for I am with you… the future glory of this house shall be greater than the former.” God reminded them that His presence is greater than any human weakness, and His plan is far bigger than their fears.

In the Gospel, Jesus asks His disciples: “Who do you say that I am?” Peter, inspired by God, answers, “The Christ of God.” But then Jesus immediately speaks of His suffering, rejection, and death. It’s a reminder that God’s glory often comes through the path of the cross, through what seems weak or broken.

Dear friends, we should never be discouraged when our efforts for God feel small, unimpressive, or even opposed by challenges. God is building something greater than what we see now. Our part is to remain faithful, to keep working, to keep trusting. Just as the glory of the new Temple would surpass the old, so too the glory of Christ’s resurrection would outshine the cross.

In our own lives, when we face struggles, delays, or discouragement, let us remember: God is not finished with us yet. What seems like ruins today may be the foundation for greater glory tomorrow. Our task is to stay faithful, keep building, and trust that with Christ, the best is yet to come.