💖 HOMILY - NOVEMBER 11 💖

First Reading - Wisdom 2:23-3:9

Gospel - Luke 17:7-10

Every one of us longs for meaning — to know that our lives matter, that what we do, even in small ways, counts for something lasting. Yet so often, our efforts seem unnoticed, our sacrifices unacknowledged. Today’s readings invite us to see beyond appearances and discover the deep truth that faithfulness in the ordinary, humble tasks of life is precious in God’s eyes. 

In the first reading, the Book of Wisdom reminds us that God created us for immortality — not just physical endurance, but life that shares in His own eternal love. For those who live faithfully, even suffering and hardship are not signs of failure but passages to glory. The world may judge such people as insignificant or even foolish, but God sees their inner strength, their perseverance, and their quiet fidelity. The reading assures us that “the souls of the just are in the hands of God, and no torment shall touch them.” What an encouragement this is — to know that every act of goodness, every hidden struggle, and every quiet prayer is not lost, but held in the memory and mercy of God.

In the Gospel, Jesus speaks about the attitude of a servant who, after doing all that is commanded, does not seek recognition or reward but simply says, “We are unworthy servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.” At first, this may sound harsh, but Jesus is not discouraging us — He is freeing us. He teaches us that true discipleship is not about earning God’s favor or human applause. It is about love expressed in humble obedience. When we serve out of love, without calculation or complaint, we grow into the likeness of Christ Himself, who came “not to be served but to serve.”

Dear friends, in our homes, workplaces, and communities, we are often called to serve — sometimes in unnoticed, tiring, or repetitive ways. Parents caring for their children, workers doing their jobs with integrity, volunteers giving time to others — all these are forms of faithful service. When done in love, they are holy. When done for God, they bear eternal fruit.

The world measures worth by results and recognition, but God measures by faithfulness. Our hidden acts of love may seem small, but in God’s eyes, they are treasures that endure forever. The souls of the just — those who live and serve with steadfast hearts — rest in the peace of the Lord, not because they were perfect, but because they trusted in His promise and remained faithful to the end.

So let us continue our journey with the quiet confidence of servants who know their Master’s love. Let us do what is right, not for praise, but because we belong to the One who created us for life that never ends. For in every humble act of service done in faith, heaven is touched, and eternity begins to grow within us.