12th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year A
In today’s Gospel message we have two important lessons ‘to take courage’ and ‘to be on your guard.’ If we do not, then we might be tempted to stop preaching the gospel, or maybe even soften the message, in order to make things easier not to offend anybody.
We read that Jesus entrusts the full Gospel message to his disciples, saying, ‘even though people will persecute you, do not be afraid. What you have learnt from the Master you must speak in the light of truth and proclaim it from the housetops. The worst thing that your enemies can do, is to kill the body. They can never kill the soul.’
In our first reading from Jeremiah, we hear his despair in times of persecution. We have to bear in mind that Jeremiah never wanted to become a prophet, he did his best to run away from any responsibility of being God’s spokesperson. However, finally he placed his trust in the Lord, and his confidence did not waver throughout his persecutions.
We should be encouraged, after hearing today’s readings. Like Jeremiah and Jesus’ disciples, they placed their trust fully in the Lord, even in the sight of Martyrdom.
In the secular world today, we all fear the anxiety not to offend others. The ‘News’ is full of people disputing on one thing or another. Things that we might personally agree with or maybe disagree with. If we raise our voices, then a lot of hurt and distress might come in our direction. What should we do?
This very question was on my mind during Seminary college. Knowing that after my ordination, I will be classed as a public figure, and people will be looking towards me for guidance in the faith within the Catholic Church teachings.
Is my knowledge sound and true? Hopefully it is. (just about). Am I prepared to announce it from the housetops? Well, I prefer to announce it from the Pulpit, in a much safer environment in church. Would I debate the Catholic faith on National TV, against a well-known scientist or campaigner? Probably not. There is a line that I would be very fearful or afraid to cross. Unfortunately, Jesus wants us to go that extra mile, to push ourselves and to go into the unknown.
When I was in my earlier years at Seminary, the thought of preaching in church was very daunting. I wasn’t looking forward to the experience or learning how to do it. Obviously, I knew as a priest this was something I needed to learn and overcome. Nevertheless, it was a frighting prospect. People come up to me now, saying how do you find preaching in a church full of parishioners. My answer is straightforward. Once you have preached in front of your year group at college, and you have had your homily ripped apart from your peers, you can accomplish anything.
The most difficult group of people to preach to is a bunch of ‘know it all’ seminarians who think they are smarter than anyone else.
So, preaching in a church environment is less stressful and enjoyable.
During those years at seminary, I was pushed, tested, and stretched, in so many different ways, making me the priest I am today. Through God’s love and grace, I hope that my knowledge and limited priestly experience will grow and be fruitful for the benefit of all, for the parishioners here in this parish community.
So, whatever happens, let us ask God to be in control of our lives. Allowing the Holy Spirit to work within us, guiding our thoughts, words, and actions. So, when we have completed our earthly journey, after being tested and proved by fire, professing the Good News, we will know that we have finished the race to the best of our ability, completed the Mission that Our Lord Jesus has given us, and able to relax in the treasures that we have built up in Heaven, through our works of Faith, Hope and Charity here on earth.
Rev. Fr Philip Wrigley's Blog 