𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗟𝗜𝗩𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗙𝗢𝗥? 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗗𝗜𝗘 𝗙𝗢𝗥? | 28 Sep 2025 HOMILY w/ Fr. Jerry Orbos, SVD

Summary

In this homily, the priest reflects on the Gospel story of the rich man and Lazarus, emphasizing the importance of living a life of virtue and humility over wealth and comfort. The priest underscores the inevitability of divine justice and the importance of repentance, urging the congregation to return to the Lord, live with integrity, and avoid the pitfalls of selfishness. He also highlights themes of reparation, intercession, and purification, urging the faithful to live with purpose and generosity, particularly as we approach the end of life. The message encourages reflection on one's actions and spiritual life.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Gospel story emphasizes the importance of divine justice and the consequences of how we live our lives. The rich man and Lazarus highlight the contrast between earthly wealth and spiritual poverty.
• 😀 Jesus' parable calls for self-reflection on the choices we make regarding wealth, generosity, and compassion towards those in need.
• 😀 The final judgment will be based on our deeds and choices, as God's justice will eventually prevail, regardless of temporary worldly injustices.
• 😀 The importance of confession is underscored with a humorous yet insightful story about a man who hadn't confessed in decades, encouraging others not to delay repentance.
• 😀 The message stresses the brevity of life, urging people to make the most of their time on Earth by focusing on spiritual growth and good deeds.
• 😀 Life’s true value is not measured by wealth or quantity but by the quality of how we live, treat others, and honor God.
• 😀 The sermon calls for humility, generosity, and love as the virtues to embody, contrasting these against the empty pursuit of wealth and personal gain.
• 😀 The story of St. Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino saint and martyr, serves as an example of living a life for God and others, rather than just for personal benefit.
• 😀 People are encouraged to reflect on their blessings and use them to serve others, emphasizing social responsibility beyond one’s immediate family circle.
• 😀 The month of October, especially with the focus on the Rosary, is seen as a time for spiritual purification, intercession, and reparation for past wrongs.
• 😀 The preacher emphasizes the importance of living a quality life that honors God, as well as preparing for a peaceful exit from this world and a bright entrance into eternity.

Q & A

What lesson does the parable of the rich man and Lazarus teach us?

The parable of the rich man and Lazarus teaches that divine justice will eventually catch up with everyone. The good will be rewarded, while the selfish and unjust will face consequences. It underscores the importance of compassion and humility in life.

What does the priest mean when he says, 'Don't stay away from the Lord too far, too long'?

The priest emphasizes the importance of staying connected with God and not neglecting one’s spiritual life. By staying away from God for too long, a person risks spiritual death and separation from divine grace.

Why does the priest refer to 'divine justice' and how does it relate to the present injustices in the world?

The priest mentions 'divine justice' to reassure the congregation that, even though social injustices and evil may seem rampant in the world, God’s justice will ultimately prevail. Good will be rewarded, and evil will be judged.

How does the priest explain the concept of purgatory in the context of confession?

In the context of confession, the priest highlights that purgatory represents a time of purification after death for those who are saved but still need to atone for their sins. It is a place where souls are purified before entering heaven.

What is the significance of the priest's reflections on 'quality life' versus 'quantity life'?

The priest stresses that focusing on a 'quality life'—one centered on values like generosity, humility, and spiritual growth—is more important than simply seeking 'quantity life', which is defined by materialism, wealth, and selfish pursuits.

What does the priest mean by 'life is short' and how does it tie into the overall message of the sermon?

By saying 'life is short', the priest reminds the congregation of the fleeting nature of life. This serves as a call to live a meaningful and purposeful life, focused on faith, compassion, and good deeds, before it is too late.

What was the significance of the priest’s mention of 'St. Lorenzo Ruiz'?

St. Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino martyr, is highlighted as an example of someone who lived for God and died for a cause greater than themselves. The priest uses his story to inspire the congregation to live selflessly and with purpose.

How does the priest address the idea of social responsibility in his sermon?

The priest encourages the congregation to think beyond their personal circles (family and friends) and to be socially responsible, considering the needs of others and the greater community. He calls for a life that accounts for others' welfare and well-being.

What does the priest say about how people should handle the blessings they have received?

The priest urges the congregation to be generous with the blessings they have received, using them not just for personal gain but to help others. He emphasizes that blessings should be shared to make the world a better place.

What is the meaning behind the priest's call for 'reparation, intercession, and purification' in the second half of the sermon?

The priest calls for 'reparation' (making up for past wrongs), 'intercession' (praying for others), and 'purification' (cleansing oneself through suffering and sacrifice) as essential practices for spiritual growth and preparation for the afterlife.