Mar Abraham Church Sunday Homilies

English Homily - Third Sunday of Elijah 2024

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This homily discusses the parable of the weeds and the wheat, focusing on judgment and human dignity. Judgment is not simply about declaring who is good or bad⁠. It's difficult to distinguish between "weeds" and "wheat" until harvest time. Judgment is ultimately about who we choose to serve and align ourselves with⁠. The homily concludes by emphasizing that while past actions don't erase our value, future choices define what truly matters to us⁠.

English Homily - Second Sunday of Elijah

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Jesus speaks in a parable that's difficult to understand, not providing a clear explanation.

The disciples question Jesus' approach, and he quotes Isaiah, suggesting people are not receiving his message well due to dull hearts⁠.

Jesus wants to give "The Word of the Kingdom," which inspires good, guards against sin, and provides strength⁠.

The parable illustrates obstacles to receiving God's word, such as rocky ground, thorns, and paths⁠.

Jesus is frustrated because he wants to give himself to people, but they are often not present, not serious, or too busy⁠.

The homily concludes by reminding that while people may be waiting for God, God is also waiting to be gracious to them⁠.

English Homily - 1st Sunday of Elijah

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This homily speaks of two miracles from the Gospel: the healing of a blind man and the conversion of Zacchaeus.

Everyone has asked God for a miracle at some point in their life⁠.

The conversion of Zacchaeus is presented as a miracle, comparable to healing physical blindness⁠.

Zacchaeus, a tax collector, was spiritually lost but found salvation through his encounter with Jesus⁠.

The homily suggests that Zacchaeus' spiritual transformation might be an even greater miracle than physical healing⁠.

It emphasizes that God is continuously working to bring about similar miracles in people's lives today⁠.

The passage encourages readers to reach out to God, just as Zacchaeus did⁠.

English Homily - Seventh Sunday of Summer

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The homily discusses the concept of prayer through the example of two men, highlighting the right approach to prayer as taught by Jesus. It emphasizes that prayer should not be about comparing oneself to others or feeling superior, but about connecting with God and recognizing one's own goodness in God's eyes, independent of others. The story of a man comparing a white house to fresh snow illustrates the idea that true value and joy come from focusing on God and seeking His mercy, rather than on external comparisons.

Homily Sixth Sunday of Summer

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Being thankful is transformative as it shifts focus from oneself to others, acknowledging their efforts and reducing entitlement. The Gospel story of the ten lepers highlights the profound gratitude of one healed leper who was thankful not just for physical healing but for the restored ability to connect and love without causing harm. This teaches us to be grateful for healing that allows us to love freely and deeply without our own pain spilling over and hurting others. Jesus invites us to give thanks for this profound healing and to be instruments of joy, mercy, and love.

English Homily - Fourth Sunday of Summer

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The Fourth Sunday of Summer emphasizes repentance and inner transformation. A study showed that lying increases the need to engage in good behavior to alleviate guilt. Jesus teaches that true purity comes from within, not from external rituals or appearances. Our actions and words reflect the state of our hearts, and we must focus on inner renewal through God's grace. Sacraments like baptism and the mass symbolize this inner purification. We are called to align our lives with God's will and seek inner healing to honor God and fulfill our Christian mission.

English Homily Third Sunday of Summer

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The story from the Gospel highlights a lack of compassion and empathy towards a man blind from birth, with people focusing on blame rather than healing. The disciples and Pharisees are more concerned with fault and punishment than the man's newfound sight. The homily draws a parallel to medical terminology, emphasizing that diagnosis identifies problems but does not provide solutions. It stresses the importance of taking responsibility and action once we "see" the issues. Jesus connects work and light, urging us to act while we can see, focusing on doing God's work rather than dwelling on blame or future worries. The message encourages embracing the work of salvation and following Christ's guidance, even if it leads to unfamiliar paths.

Homily Second Sunday of Summer

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The homily discusses the Parable of the Prodigal Son, suggesting it could also be titled the Parable of the Loving Father, emphasizing the father's love and forgiveness. It contrasts the younger son's physical and emotional distance from his father with the older son's emotional distance despite physical proximity. The father's readiness to welcome both sons back symbolizes God's eagerness to bridge the gap with His children, encouraging readers to take steps towards reconciliation and repentance.

English Homily: Seventh Sunday of the Apostles

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Jesus teaches that the path to heaven is not guaranteed by mere association with him or by being in his presence. It requires striving, represented by the metaphor of entering through a narrow door. This striving involves being steadfast, immovable, and abounding in the work of the Lord. The journey may involve struggle and may not always be recognized or rewarded, but it is a commitment to continuously discovering new ways to express love for God.