16th May 2020

Saturday 16th May 2020

ACTS 16:1-10

Psalm 100:1-3, 5

JOHN 15:18-21 

Homily: Rev. Deacon. Samuel Muhanji Nyonje 

Theme: Be Watchful. 

Shalom people of God. In today's Gospel Jesus prepares his disciples for the hard task in future, that's , apart from the proclamation of the Gospel, they will encounter persecution. Like their master, they would face persecution for upholding their faith in Christ and the gospel values. This is the price of discipleship. This is what true Christian should expect.

In such situation, how should we deal with our opponents? First, to be victorious, we should embrace them. By embracing, I don't mean we accept that demands but use their tactics and chance to evangelize them. For instance , opponents of the Gospel today support Abortion, Euthanasia, same sec marriage etc; how should Christians deal with them? We should reach out to them without fear, firmly telling them there's a better option than their choice. By embracing we will definitely win them to Christ. 

Another way of dealing with our opponents is to fight without harm or confrontation. St Paul was not hostile, nor did he pick a fight with them. Rather, he saw this as an opportunity to bring the good news to those who desired it.  Just like in the fi st reading, Paul met an obstacle to his missionary journey, but didn't follow his plans, rather he listened to the voice of God. 

St. Paul was docile and refused to be hindered in proclaiming the gospel just because he faced some obstacles.  He would find new ways to proclaim the gospel to new territorie as lead by the Holy Spirit. Indeed, when God closes one door, He opens another door.   We must be adaptable to change.

This is the same way the true Church of Christ should see today, when the World leaders opted to close Churches, but slowly opening restaurants, Bars, Parliaments, political meetings in statehouse, cabinet plans etc...

 Instead of seeing it as an obstacle to our faith because we do not have the traditional means to encounter God, then we must take this occasion as a period for purification, a better appreciation of our faith and the liturgy.   We can find new ways to grow in our faith and spiritual life.   We must learn to adapt creatively to new challenges and obstacles.  This Covid-19 pandemic has forced us to think of a parish without boundaries, a new way of formation and evangelization. Indeed this is the Holy Spirit in work. 

Wishing you all fruitful Saturday of the Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of God.

Rev. Deacon. Samuel Nyonje

samnyonje.blogspot.com