Thursday, August 17, 2017

Homily for 17 Aug 2017

17 August 2017

The Church is often referred to as the “pilgrim” Church; in other words, we’re going somewhere.  We haven’t arrived yet in the promised land of eternal life.  Just like Jesus (especially in the Gospel of Luke), we are travelers heading toward Jerusalem; or, rather, the “New Jerusalem” of heaven.

We’re on a journey.  But along the way, there are potholes and detours, events in life and the peskiness of sin that sometimes get in the way. 

And that’s similar to the Red Sea and the Jordan River in ancient times.  The Israelites were trying to get to the Promised Land, but those massive bodies of water (not to mention the deserts and such) were like barriers along the way.  But they carried the Ark of the Covenant in front of them, and that’s what kept them safe; that’s what made the journey to the Promised Land possible—the Ark of the Covenant.

As we journey through this life, and we’re navigating all the many challenges we face—especially those that challenge our faith, it’s a good thing to keep the Lord as our guide.  He’s already promised to lead us home safely; if only we let him lead the way. 

When we’re tempted to doubt the Lord’s promise, remember all the good things he has done, not only for “me,” but also for others.  When we’re tempted to lose faith, pray to the Lord: “Lord, I need more faith in you right now.”  When we’re lost, seek the guidance of Scripture, the Church, trusted and faithful friends, and the help of our Blessed Mother and the angels and saints.

We’re a pilgrim Church, travelers toward heaven, and the road has lots of potholes and detours.  But the Lord will see us through safely; if only we trust him to be our navigator.

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