My homily for 11th Sunday in Ordinary time year B
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today we are celebrating the eleventh Sunday in Ordinary time year B. In the first reading, prophet Ezekiel uses a poetic image of God as a tree planter and tree tender to convey a message of hope and restoration. There are four main themes which we can explore from this reading. They include;
- God as Tree Planter:
- God is depicted as a tree planter who takes a sprig from a cedar tree.
- This sprig represents hope for the people of Israel, who had experienced exile and loss of their monarchy.
In Scripture, the cedar tree holds significant symbolism, representing strength, stability, and righteousness. It is often used as a metaphor for godly individuals or the righteous, signifying a deep connection with God and His divine presence in one’s life. The cedar tree is mentioned many times in the Bible and is associated with blessings, protection, and prosperity. It symbolizes flourishing and enduring faith.
- The second theme is New Growth and Restoration:
- The planted sprig grows into a majestic tree on God’s mountain.
- This symbolizes Israel’s restoration—a new beginning after suffering and captivity. Ezekiel assures them that God will act to restore their monarchy.
- The third theme is Shelter and Blessing: It signifies that
- The tree provides shade and rest for birds of every kind.
- God’s kingdom offers refuge and blessings to all who seek Him.
- The fourth theme is Divine Power and Sovereignty:
- The reading emphasizes God’s authority over life and death.
- God builds up, tears down, and accomplishes His purposes.
Through this reading, Ezekiel assures Israel and assures us too of God’s faithfulness, promising renewal and a future with hope.
In the second reading (2 Corinthians 5:7) St. Paul states that: “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
– To “walk by faith” means relying on God’s promises and guidance even when we cannot physically see or fully understand the path ahead.
– It involves trusting in God’s character, His Word, and His unseen work in our lives. It emphasizes that our faith transcends what our eyes perceive.
– We don’t rely solely on visible evidence; instead, we anchor ourselves in the eternal truths of God.
Walking by faith means: Believing in God’s goodness even during challenging circumstances. Trusting that He is at work, even when His ways are mysterious. Choosing obedience to His Word, even when it contradicts worldly wisdom. In essence, “walking by faith, not by sight” invites us to trust God beyond what our physical senses reveal, knowing that His ways are higher and His promises are sure.
In the gospel Jesus gives a parable in which he compares the kingdom of God to a mustard seed. It is a story that begins with something so small yet has the potential to grow into something so great. He says the mustard seed is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and nest in its branches”
This tiny seed, often overlooked and underestimated, represents our faith. It may seem insignificant at first glance, but when nurtured with love and devotion, it can grow into a mighty tree. Our faith may start small, but with God’s grace, it can become a sanctuary for others.
Just as the mustard seed grows into a tree that provides shelter for birds, our faith can become a refuge for those seeking solace and guidance. Faith can offer comfort in times of sorrow and strength in moments of weakness.
- The Tiny Seed with Great Potential:
- The mustard seed is incredibly small, but it has the potential for significant growth.
- Similarly, God’s kingdom may seem insignificant at first, but it has the power to transform lives and communities.
- The Unexpected Growth:
- When the mustard seed grows, it becomes a large plant, even a tree.
- Likewise, God’s kingdom grows unexpectedly, impacting hearts, families, and societies.
- Application for Us Today:
- As believers, we are like mustard seeds. Our faith may start small, but God can use it to bring about remarkable change.
- Let us trust God’s work in our lives, knowing that even the smallest acts of faith can have a profound impact.
Remember, God is doing the building, not us. Just as the tiny mustard seed becomes a home for birds, our lives, when surrendered to God, become vessels for His kingdom to flourish.
What are the practical ways you can apply the parable of a mustard seed in your daily live. Here are some practical ways:
1. Start Small with what you have now:
- Just as the seed begins small, consider taking small steps in your faith journey.
- Begin with daily prayer, reading Scripture, or acts of kindness. Trust that God can multiply your efforts.
2. Nurture Your Faith:
- – We all have a mustard seed in us. Water your faith through prayer, reading and meditating on the scriptures, and fellowship with others. Just as the mustard seed needs soil and water, your faith needs nourishment. Water your faith through consistent practices. Attend church, join a study prayer group, or engage in spiritual conversations, read spiritual books to deepen your understanding.
- Like the mustard seed, allow your faith to grow and deepen over time.
3. Trust God’s Providence:
- Even when circumstances seem uncertain, trust that God is at work. His kingdom is advancing, even if we can’t see it.
- Surrender your worries and anxieties, knowing that God’s plan is unfolding.
4. Be of an impact to others:
– Just as the mustard tree provides shelter for birds, you too be a shelter to others. Let your life be a blessing to other people.
– Serve, and share your faith with others. Your impact may be greater than you can imagine. Offer encouragement, kindness and love to others. Remember, it’s not about the size of your faith; but it’s about the God you trust. Your small acts can have a significant impact on others and contribute to God’s kingdom. Be a mustard seed to someone today. Let your mustard seed faith grow into a flourishing tree that blesses those around you. Remember, faith grows when we step out in trust, even when we can’t fully see the outcome. Let your life be a testimony to God’s grace and love!
Let us pray
O lord make me a mustard seed for someone today. Let my life be a positive impact to others. Let my faith grow big. And let others find shelter in me. Make me a seed of love, a seed of hope, a seed of joy, a seed of peace…Amen