Homily for the 2nd Sunday of the year B
Readings: 1 Samuel 3:3b-10.19 1Corinthians 6:13c-15a.17-20 John 1:35-42
Theme: Contentment in life
Today is the 2nd Sunday of the ordinary time of the year B. In the three readings we have today, in different ways about our call to discipleship. In the 1st reading we hear about the call of Samuel, and he was guided by Eli on what to do. In the 2nd reading, St. Paul admonishes us about what to do as faithful Disciples of Christ. Lastly in the Gospel reading, John exhibits a wonderful attribute that should be found in the life of a disciple of Christ; which is contentment.
Sometimes in our lives, when things happen without any problem, we take things fore-granted. For instance, when we sleep at night and wake up without any problem, some of us tend to think that it is normal; nothing special has happened. Not knowing that some people slept last night, but did not wake up in the morning. The air we breathe is given to us free of charge by God, but when you are sick and have to pay for oxygen to sustain your life, and then you will realize that God is giving you so much without collecting anything from you in return.
The action of John the Baptist in today’s gospel, reminds me about a story I was told sometime in the past. Mr. A and Mr. B lives in the same house. One day, some visitors were directed by a friend of Mr. B to him in his country. But when they arrived, Mr. A was the person they met. So he asked them, do you know Mr. B, they said no; we were directed to him by our friend and he said, that is why I am surprised because I am Mr. B. Mr. B was not around at the time the visitors came and Mr. A received them pretending to be Mr. B. The friend who directed them called to appreciate Mr. B for his hospitality towards them and he was surprised because he has not seen them. The deception of Mr. A was later discovered.
But in the gospel John pointed out to his disciples Jesus The Lamb of God and they left him and followed Jesus. He was not jealous or angry that he lost his disciples, because he was contented with the task God gave him and there was no need for unnecessary rivalry. If Mr. A was contented with himself, he would not have pretended to be Mr. B. This brings us to a very important question, are you contented with the task God has given you as a disciple of Christ? We all should be contented like John the Baptist. By so doing eliminating all forms of unnecessary rivalry and envy that is found amongst the people of God. There is no better time for us to take this bold step than now, as the church prays for unity.
In the 1st reading, we see the call of Samuel. He heard because he was attentive. In the same way, we have to learn to be attentive to the voice of God, especially during prayer. Always remember that prayer is a dialogue between you and God; not a monologue. Also, in 2nd reading, St. Paul admonishes us about the need for holiness and purity of life, as children of God. This is very important if we want to remain in union of God.
May God grant us the grace to be true disciples of Christ at all times. Peace be with you. Amen.