Cathedral Homilies - September 29 (Fr. Viel)

Summary

In this homily, the preacher reflects on the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time, highlighting the joy brought by God's precepts as expressed in the Responsorial Psalm. Drawing from the Book of Numbers, the sermon emphasizes God's spirit shared with leaders to assure the Israelites of His goodness amidst their trials. The Gospel narrative illustrates Jesus' approval of those who perform good deeds in His name, even if they are not His followers, as they also bring joy. The preacher encourages the congregation to spread joy, like the Manila Cathedral choir did through their music, and to remember the archangels' roles in bringing God's joy. The message concludes with a call to be a source of joy to others, reflecting God's love and goodness.

Takeaways

• 🙏 We gather as a family to celebrate the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time and give thanks for the blessings received.
• 📜 The precepts of the Lord bring joy to our hearts, as mentioned in the Responsorial Psalm.
• 🔑 In the first reading from the Book of Numbers, God shares the spirit of Moses with seven men to assure the people of His goodness and presence.
• 👥 Sharing of the spirit and responsibility signifies God's care and the presence of life and hope.
• 😇 In the Gospel, Jesus frees someone from the spirit of evil, showing God's power to bring joy and freedom.
• 🚫 Jesus encourages not to prevent anyone who does good in His name, emphasizing the importance of good deeds.
• 💧 Giving a cup of water as a simple act of kindness is equated to spreading joy and will be rewarded.
• 👀 We are reminded that our bodies can lead us to sin, and we should be vigilant to maintain joy in our hearts.
• 🎉 The Manila Cathedral choir's Thanksgiving concert is highlighted as an example of spreading joy through music and perseverance.
• 🎶 The concert's impact is noted to have brought joy to many hearts, emphasizing the power of music and community.
• 👼 The feast of the archangels Gabriel, Michael, and Raphael is observed on the 29th of September, symbolizing God's joy in our hearts through their actions.
• 💖 We are encouraged to remind ourselves of God's goodness, the blessings we have, and the importance of spreading joy to others.

Q & A

What is the significance of the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time?

The 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time is a day for the congregation to come together as a family, give thanks to God, and reflect on the precepts of the Lord that bring joy to the heart.

What did the people of Israel complain about in the desert?

The people of Israel complained about being hungry in the desert, desiring more than the manna they were given.

How did God show His goodness to the Israelites in the book of Numbers?

In the book of Numbers, God showed His goodness by sharing the spirit of Moses with seven other men, ensuring the people that there is life and hope.

What is the importance of the responsorial psalm mentioned in the script?

The responsorial psalm emphasizes that the precepts of the Lord bring joy to the heart and are a source of spiritual nourishment.

How did Jesus demonstrate God's goodness in the Gospel reading?

Jesus demonstrated God's goodness by allowing someone to perform miracles in His name, even if that person was not officially following Him, showing that God's grace extends beyond the chosen few.

What is the significance of giving a cup of water in the context of the Gospel?

Giving a cup of water symbolizes small acts of kindness that can bring joy to others and is a way of spreading God's goodness.

What role do our bodies play in leading us to sin according to the script?

Our bodies can be a source of temptation and sin, but recognizing this can help us to open our eyes and hearts to God's precepts and will.

Why is it important to share joy with one another as mentioned in the script?

Sharing joy with one another is a way to be a disciple and spread God's goodness, which in turn brings joy to the hearts of many.

What was the Manila Cathedral choir's recent activity mentioned in the script?

The Manila Cathedral choir held a Thanksgiving concert after months of practice and ongoing formation and training.

What is the significance of the feast of the archangels on the 29th of September?

The feast of the archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael is a day to remember how these archangels brought joy to the hearts of people through their actions, such as defending the people from Satan, bringing good news, and healing.

What is the message of the script regarding God's goodness and joy?

The script conveys that God's goodness and will always bring joy to our hearts, and as recipients of God's blessings, we should also aim to bring joy to the hearts of others.