Homilies for June 2024

For the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi), the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Tenth Sunday, Eleventh Sunday, Twelfth Sunday, and Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, and Sts. Peter and Paul

The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi) – June 2, 2024

Readings: Ex 24:3–8 • Ps 116:12–13, 15–16, 17–18 • Heb 9:11–15 • Mk 14:12–16, 22–26 
bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060224.cfm

As we gather today to celebrate the solemnity of Corpus Christi, the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, the readings offer a profound backdrop to the significance of this liturgical feast. The primitive scene from the Book of Exodus paints a vivid picture of a rough-hewn altar, twelve stone pillars, and young men from the tribes of Israel sacrificing young bulls. The sacrificial scene becomes a tangible prefiguration of the Eucharist.

The burnt offerings symbolize Christ’s voluntary surrender to the Father’s will on the Cross. Christ’s sacrifice, like the burnt offerings, ascends to God as a sweet savor. Our liturgy today is imbued with this sweet savor as we partake in the Eucharist, immersing ourselves in the grace emanating from Christ’s self-offering. The peace offering in the Old Testament, signifying communion with God, likewise finds its fulfillment in the Eucharist, where believers experience real Peace and Communion with God. The Eucharist bestows upon us the peace that flows from charity.

Despite any squeamishness one might feel about the imagery of blood, Catholics, accepting Jesus’ invitation to partake in His body and blood, find reason for praise. The real presence of Jesus — Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity – in the Eucharist is a source of joy and vocal praise, reminiscent of the disciples who sang a hymn before going to the Mount of Olives.

God, in His infinite wisdom, employs our sense experience of the Eucharist to communicate the spiritual nourishment and sweetness of His grace. Though hidden beneath the signs of bread and wine, we, as Christians, perceive the profound reality that “blood is poured, and flesh is broken.” The sacrificial system of the old covenant, with its numerous offerings, served as a shadow, incapable of removing the world’s sins. However, the blood of Christ, as the Letter to the Hebrews asserts, cleanses our consciences and enables us to worship the living God.

The old covenant’s sacrificial rituals, such as the sprinkling of blood on the people, find their ultimate fulfillment in the new covenant sealed by Christ’s own blood. This blood, poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins, resonates with Christ’s words during the Last Supper, “This is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many.” The Church, in hearing the word of God proclaimed today, is reminded of being a new people, where the covenant of the past is perfected and fulfilled in Christ.

Christ, having entered the sanctuary with His own blood, obtains eternal redemption, marking a decisive departure from the old covenant’s rituals involving the blood of goats and calves. Through the proclamation of Christ’s paschal mystery in Sacred Scriptures and its present manifestation in the sacrifice of the Mass, the Church becomes the custodian of the New Covenant. As Christ’s faithful, we receive and respond to the word of His covenant, nourishing our faith, making us holy, and uniting us by charity.

This transmission of the divine covenant nourishes us, enabling us to Passover to heavenly realities and anticipate the promised eternal inheritance. Our reception of the precious Body and Blood of Jesus becomes a foreshadowing of the joy that awaits us in eternity. It is a joy rooted in the vision of the Trinity, the clarity of conscience, and communion with the Church Triumphant — a joy that is immortal and incorruptible.

As we partake in this Eucharistic celebration, we reflect on the depth of the mystery we encounter — the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ — and pray that we may, for all eternity, delight in the divine life promised to us through this sacrament. May our communion today be a foretaste of the everlasting joy that awaits us in the presence of the Triune God.

The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus – June 7, 2024

Readings: Hos 11:1, 3–4, 8c–9 • Is 12:2–3, 4, 5–6 • Eph 3:8–12, 14–19 • Jn 19:31–37
bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060724.cfm

As we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, we reflect on the profound mystery of God’s love for us, a love so deep and so wide that it embraces the entirety of our existence. The Sacred Heart of Jesus is not just a symbol of divine love, but a real invitation to enter into a relationship with God, who desires nothing more than to dwell within the very core of our being — our hearts.

In Scripture, the “heart” signifies much more than our emotions or feelings. It represents the moral and spiritual center of a person. It is in the heart that God chooses to meet us, in the fullness of our humanity, with all our virtues and vices. The Lord knows every disposition of our hearts, and it is His fervent desire to reclaim them for Himself. As we hear in Proverbs, “My son, give me your heart.” This plea from Our Heavenly Father is an invitation to intimacy, to surrender, and to transformation.

Initially, our spiritual journey begins in a place where our hearts are not yet fully aligned with God’s will. They are, as Scripture tells us, under the dominion of evil. The Lord observed how “every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually” (Gen 6:5), which grieved Him deeply. Yet, even in recognizing our fallen state, God’s response was not one of condemnation but of compassion. His heart overflows with mercy as He declares, “I will not give vent to my blazing anger,” choosing instead to offer us a path to redemption and life.

This journey toward God involves a continuous battle within our hearts, a struggle between sin and grace. It is a time for vigilance, for purification, and for opening ourselves to the transformative power of God’s love. Through faith, the grace of Christ enters our hearts, initiating a process of healing and renewal. In this battle, we are called to expand our hearts, to deepen our faith, and to seek the grace that God longs to bestow upon us. “With joy, you will draw water at the fountain of salvation,” but it is essential to yearn not for earthly treasures but for the true riches that come from a heart transformed by God — a heart that is poor, sorrowful, clean, meek, and gentle.

Ultimately, our spiritual journey leads us to a moment of profound union with Christ, a moment when sin is expelled from our hearts by the Holy Spirit, and we are sanctified. This union with the Sacred Heart of Jesus marks the summit of Christian perfection, which is to love God with all our heart, soul, and strength. It is a love so potent that it led to Jesus’ heart being pierced on the cross for us, from which blood and water flowed as a source of sacramental life for the Church.

The Eucharist, the very heart of our faith, binds us to Jesus, uniting our human frailty with His divinity. As we partake of the one bread, our hearts are strengthened; as we share the one chalice, our hearts are filled with joy. Through these sacred mysteries, the grace of the Holy Spirit flows from Jesus’ Heart into ours, guiding us on the path from a heart ensnared by sin to a heart that is wholly devoted to God.

We pray on this solemn feast to open our hearts to the transforming power of God’s love. We ask for the grace to journey from darkness into His marvelous light, from sinfulness to sanctity, from a heart of stone to a heart that mirrors the Sacred Heart of Jesus. May our lives be a testament to the love that God has for each of us, a love that knows no bounds, a love that calls us to ever greater union with Him.

Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time – June 9, 2024

Readings: Gn 3:9-15 • Ps 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8 • 2 Cor 4:13—5:1 • Mk 3:20-35 
bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060924.cfm

In today’s readings, we are reminded of the profound consequences of the first disobedience in the Garden of Eden. Adam and Eve, lured by the serpent’s cunning, freely chose to eat from the tree that God had forbidden. Their excuses and evasion of responsibility reveal the human tendency to shirk accountability, yet both ultimately admit, “So I ate it.”

The immediate result of their disobedience was the awareness of their nakedness. This spiritual “nakedness” goes beyond physical exposure; it signifies a radical change in human nature known as “original sin,” predisposing us to actual sin. However, all is not lost. Despite their fall, God did not abandon humanity. Instead, He called them, heralding the coming victory over evil and the restoration from their fall — the “first Gospel.”

God’s remedy for our spiritual nakedness comes with the call for us to freely take responsibility for the consequences of sin. Even though God knew what had transpired, He asked for a verbal accounting. This highlights the importance of confessing our sins, exposing ourselves to Him and taking responsibility in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The Church preserves this moment in the Garden, allowing us to confess, detest, resolve not to repeat, and receive forgiveness. Consider making this a regular practice in your life.

Suffering is presented not as a punishment but as a remedy. The consequences of sin, “Because you have done this,” may seem merely consequential, but God’s action is remedial. Trusting in His word, we recognize that “with the Lord is kindness and plenteous redemption.” Suffering, in the broader context of our second reading, has redemptive value.

In Paul’s letter, we see the new covenant in the midst of the old, with the suffering righteous of the Old Covenant and Jesus enduring suffering for others. The will of God, not our will, calls us to choose to suffer for the sake of the kingdom. As brothers and sisters in Christ, doing the will of God binds us together, and our great dignity as baptized individuals lies in offering our suffering as a sacrifice.

Even in the Gospel, where the crowd gathered, making it impossible to eat, we see the example of sacrifice. The pain of hunger, reminiscent of the curse, is transformed by Christ, who feeds us with the finest wheat and places us in His presence. Therefore, we are not to be discouraged, for through our baptismal priesthood, we can offer our suffering as a sacrifice for the kingdom of God.

May we embrace the call to repentance, confession, and the redemptive value of suffering, recognizing the transformative power of God’s mercy in our lives.

Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time – June 16, 2024

Readings: Ez 17:22–24 • Ps 92:2–3, 13–14, 15–16 • 2 Cor 5:6–10 • Mk 4:26–34 
bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/061624.cfm

On this Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, we reflect on the profound messages of hope and resilience that scripture offers us, drawing particularly from the insights of the prophet Ezekiel and the teachings of St. Paul.

Ezekiel, ranked among the major prophets, offers us a vision of hope from Babylonia born of his experience as a priest in exile. He speaks of the Lord planting “a tender shoot” on the “high and lofty mountain” of Israel. This imagery is not just poetic but deeply symbolic, representing a future filled with hope. Despite the profound loss of the Temple, a consequence of Judah’s sins, Ezekiel reassures us of God’s undiminished power. In a world where the defeat of a deity was symbolized by the destruction of their temple and the subjugation of their statue, Ezekiel boldly declares that our God is neither defeated nor dead. He is alive and actively present among His people, capable of both humbling the mighty and exalting the humble, of withering the green tree and revitalizing the withered.

This message of hope is beautifully echoed in Psalm 92, which we recite with faith in our hearts, confident in the restoration of Israel and the Temple through God’s unwavering faithfulness. “They that are planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God,” the Psalmist sings, reminding us of the flourishing life promised to those who remain steadfast in their faith.

St. Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, extends this theme of hope by addressing the Christian community’s own form of exile. He reminds us that, in a very real sense, we are all exiles in this world, yearning for our true home with God. Yet, even as we navigate this earthly existence “away from the Lord,” we are called to live in a manner pleasing to Him, anchored by our faith and trust in His providence. It is in this daily living and aspiring to please God that we find our strength and purpose.

Indeed, it is the power of God to nurture and grow even the “smallest of all the seeds” scattered across the land that inspires us. This seed, seemingly insignificant, sprouts and grows in ways beyond our understanding, symbolizing the kingdom of God that flourishes in unexpected places and circumstances. The temptation to compare our spiritual journey or community with others can be strong, especially in places where the Church may seem in a state of exile. Yet, such comparisons are fruitless. God, in His wisdom, breathes new life into His Church, promising eternal life to all who come to Him.

So, we take to heart the message of hope and resilience that today’s readings offer us. Like the tender shoot planted by the Lord, may we grow and flourish in our faith, nurtured by the knowledge of God’s active presence and faithfulness. Remember, no matter where we find ourselves, to give thanks to the Lord, to proclaim His kindness and faithfulness. For in His love and power we find our true home and the promise of eternal life.

Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time – June 23, 2024

Readings: Jb 38:1, 8–11 • Ps 107:23–24, 25–26, 28–29, 30–31 • 2 Cor 5:14–17 • Mk 4:35–41 
bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/062324.cfm

Today, our reflections turn to the profound wisdom contained in the book of Job, a literary masterpiece that stands unique within the sacred canon of Scripture. Job’s narrative takes a dramatic approach to the fundamental questions of our existence, unraveling the mysteries of the relationship between God and humanity, good and evil, reward and punishment.

G.K. Chesterton, an expert in the literary arts, aptly described the book of Job as a “riddle.” Through its pages, Job invites us to explore the deep recesses of the human heart. Chesterton beautifully captures the essence of Job’s quest, stating, “[Job] shakes the pillars of the world and strikes insanely at the heavens; he lashes the stars, but it is not to silence them; it is to make them speak.” Job’s journey is not a quest to solve a problem but an exploration of the boundless riddle that is God’s purpose — a mysterious, misleading, puzzling, and paradoxical encounter with the Infinite.

Unlike a more trivial poet who might have God enter the narrative to provide answers, when God finally speaks, it is to pose questions of His own. God, in his divine wisdom, enters not to solve problems but to reframe them. “Who shut within doors the sea, when it burst forth from the womb?” God reveals that the wonder of the universe lies in its mystery, resisting simple explanations and mechanical solutions. Job’s questions about his suffering, though unanswered, invite us to delve into the depths of mystery.

True Wisdom, as depicted in Scripture, is not about finding a direct answer to the problem of suffering but living in the fear of God, transcending the difficulties faced by Job and entering the transcendent “abyss” of God’s Love. The truly wise are those who sail the sea of life, trading on deep waters, recognizing the works of the Lord and His wonders in the abyss.

Job, despite being left with more questions than answers, ultimately found what he was seeking. The good news for us is not a promise to fix all our problems. We are not mere problems to be solved but people to be loved. The love of Christ is the good news, a love so profound that even death cannot pose a problem. The Cross, a violent, beautiful, tragic, and hopeful sight, reveals God’s love for us.

As we contemplate the paradox of love and forgiveness offered on the Cross, prefigured in the suffering of Job, we find its strange and high fulfillment in the person of Jesus — the best man with the worst fortune. The book of Job corrects our vision, directing our gaze to the Cross, where the paschal mystery unites us with God. May the love of Christ, the true answer to our deepest longings, impel us to live in awe of His unfathomable love.

Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time – June 30, 2024

Readings: Wis 1:13–15; 2:23–24 • Ps 30:2, 4, 5–6, 11, 12, 13 • 2 Cor 8:7, 9, 13–15 • Mk 5:21–43 or 5:21–24, 35b–43
bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/063024.cfm

Today, as we reflect on the intertwining paths of philosophy and faith, we are reminded that wisdom, the pursuit of profound understanding, takes different forms. The Ancient Greeks embarked on an autonomous quest for wisdom, seeking answers to fundamental questions about freedom, the soul, and the nature of a person. On the other hand, the Hebrew perspective illuminates that true wisdom is a gift from God, revealed and received, not merely grasped at through human endeavors.

In our modern era, there is a prevalent belief that one can navigate life’s profound questions independently, asserting, “I don’t need God.” Yet, our Scriptures today call us to a different truth. They remind us that our very existence is a gift from God, who “fashioned all things that they might have being.” We are created in the image of God, and our immortal souls derive their life from Him. However, this immortal nature doesn’t shield us from the experience of death. God, who does not delight in destruction, warns us of the envy of the devil, seeking to pull us into the depths of the netherworld.

The wisdom we gain from Sacred Scripture is not a mere intellectual exercise; it profoundly matters. It matters in distinguishing between the true and the false, but more crucially, it shapes how we live our lives in the present and future. These are the questions that provide ultimate meaning to our existence and guide our choices.

In the Gospel, we encounter Jairus, a wise synagogue official facing an existential threat as his daughter lies at the brink of death. Filled with desperation, he falls at the feet of Jesus, pleading for healing. Despite the challenges, Jesus encourages Jairus, saying, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” This faith, like wisdom, is not self-generated; it is a gift from God, something received rather than achieved.

As we navigate the challenges of our lives, especially in the face of existential threats and the envy of the devil attempting to disrupt our reality, we are challenged to reflect on Jairus’s response. How will we choose to act? Will we, like Jairus, turn to Jesus in faith, trusting in the wisdom and faith we have received from God?

Remember, faith and wisdom are not meant to be hoarded but shared. Just as wisdom aids others in finding answers for their present lives, faith offers the promise of eternal life. Therefore, we are called to embrace the wisdom and faith we have received and, in turn, generously share them with those around us. May God’s wisdom and the gift of faith guide us on our journey, shaping our choices and bringing meaning to our lives.

Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles – June 29, 2024

Readings:
Vigil: Acts 3:1–10 • Ps 19:2–3, 4–5 • Gal 1:11–20 • Jn 21:15–19 •
bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/062924-Vigil.cfm
Day: Acts 12:1–11 • Ps 34:2–3, 4–5, 6–7, 8–9 • 2 Tm 4:6–8, 17–18 • Mt 16:13–19 • bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/062924-Day.cfm

Today, as we celebrate the solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, we are reminded of the divine plan of salvation woven through the lives of these holy Apostles. Chosen by Christ Himself, they were called to lead a multitude of peoples to eternal life. Their words of preaching and the example of their holy lives continue to resonate throughout the ages, guiding us toward the path of righteousness.

The fervent faith of Saints Peter and Paul echoes within the walls of every church across the globe. Their unwavering dedication to Christ led them to the ultimate sacrifice — their martyrdom. Though daunting to witness, their suffering was embraced with joy, for it was fueled by their profound love for our Lord.

In the words of Saint Paul, “the time of my departure is at hand. I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith.” Despite the natural instinct to fear death, the love of Christ instills within us a steadfast faith — a faith exemplified by Saint Peter’s confession of love for the Lord, even after his moments of denial.

Indeed, the power of love triumphs over the fear of death. It is this love that motivated Peter’s confession at Caesarea Philippi, upon which Jesus built His Church. Let us remember that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ, not even the shadow of death.

Yet, in our world today, we still witness persecution and oppression. Even in societies that champion diversity and inclusion, Catholic Christians often face discrimination and violence. Fear and hatred continue to bind many hearts, obscuring the light of Christ’s love.

We pray fervently that the angels of heaven may awaken those imprisoned by fear and hatred, that they may be liberated from the chains that bind them. May they be filled with the transformative power of love and faith, following Christ with unwavering devotion.

Today, as we honor Saints Peter and Paul we rejoice in their luminous examples of faith and courage. Like shining stars in the firmament of faith, they guide us ever closer to the radiant love of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

May their intercession strengthen us on our journey of faith, and may we, too, bear witness to the enduring power of Christ’s love in our lives.