𝗗𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝗣𝗔𝗡𝗜𝗖... 𝗚𝗢𝗗 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗟 | 16 November 2025 HOMILY w/ Fr. Jerry Orbos, SVD | 33rd Sunday

Summary

In this reflective homily, the speaker urges the congregation to trust in God’s provision and not to panic when faced with life's challenges, such as health issues, financial struggles, or fears for loved ones. Drawing from the gospel, the speaker emphasizes that although difficult times—earthquakes, persecutions, and disasters—are inevitable, God’s love and presence remain constant. By trusting more and worrying less, we can find peace, even in adversity. The message is clear: don’t let material concerns or fear of the unknown overshadow the faith that assures us God is always with us, guiding us through life’s trials.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Gospel reading emphasizes the coming challenges of the end times, including natural disasters, wars, and persecutions, but assures that these are not signs of the immediate end.
• 😀 Jesus warns not to panic or follow false prophets who claim to know when the end will come, urging patience and trust in God's plan.
• 😀 The message encourages faith, emphasizing that despite trials, God’s wisdom will guide believers in their defense and witness.
• 😀 Jesus reminds his followers that even when they face persecution, betrayal by loved ones, or death, their faith and endurance will lead to salvation.
• 😀 The priest encourages the congregation to trust God more and worry less, using simple reminders like 'Don't worry, be happy' to alleviate anxiety.
• 😀 The faithful are reminded not to panic over material possessions or provisions, drawing parallels to panic buying during a natural disaster as a sign of misplaced priorities.
• 😀 The message calls for a shift in perspective, encouraging detachment from materialism and emphasizing the importance of spiritual trust over worldly concerns.
• 😀 The priest recounts personal experiences of health scares to highlight how people panic when faced with physical pain or uncertainty, but calls for a faith-driven response.
• 😀 Trusting God is not just about trusting in provision, but also in the health and well-being of ourselves and our loved ones, with God holding them in greater love than we can.
• 😀 The priest underscores that the fear of death and uncertainty about the future should be met with faith in God's plan and the promise of eternal life, urging believers to focus on loving God and others without regret.

Q & A

What is the central message of the Gospel reading from St. Luke in this homily?

The central message of the Gospel reading is about the coming trials and tribulations in the world, including wars, natural disasters, and persecutions. Jesus warns His followers not to panic but to trust in Him, as these events are a part of the unfolding of God's plan. The faithful are encouraged to endure patiently and remain steadfast in faith.

How does the priest relate the Gospel message to real-life experiences?

The priest connects the Gospel message to real-life experiences by sharing personal stories of fear and panic, particularly regarding health issues and material concerns. He uses these personal anecdotes, like his recovery from surgery, to illustrate how people often panic in difficult situations, and how trusting in God can help overcome that fear.

What does the priest say about materialism and how it relates to panic?

The priest points out that the more materialistic a person is, the more they tend to panic when things go wrong. He explains that people who are attached to their possessions and comfort are more likely to experience fear when those things are threatened. He urges the faithful to let go of excessive attachments and trust in God for their provision.

What is the significance of the story about the typhoon and panic buying?

The story about the typhoon and panic buying serves as an example of how people react to fear and uncertainty. The priest uses it to illustrate how humans naturally panic in times of crisis, often focusing on provisions and material security. It reinforces the idea that worrying about material needs distracts us from trusting in God's care and provision.

What does the priest mean by 'trust more, worry less'?

'Trust more, worry less' is a key takeaway from the homily. The priest encourages the congregation to put their trust in God rather than constantly worrying about future uncertainties. This message is about letting go of fears and anxieties and believing that God will provide and guide them through life’s challenges.

How does the priest address the fear of death in his homily?

The priest acknowledges that fear of death is a natural human response. However, he emphasizes that we should not fear the end of life, but rather live with the awareness that we are accountable to God for how we have lived. He suggests that the real panic should come not from physical death, but from living a life disconnected from God and His commandments.

What does the priest mean by saying 'What does it profit you, if you gain the whole world and lose your soul'?

This phrase is a reflection on the futility of pursuing material success and power at the cost of one's spiritual well-being. The priest is reminding the congregation that accumulating wealth, status, and possessions is meaningless if it leads to spiritual neglect and separation from God.

What lesson does the priest convey with the example of the Lobok River and the bridge?

The example of the Lobok River and its bridge symbolizes the futility of building material wealth and structures that ultimately lead to nowhere. The priest uses the image of a bridge leading to an old church with no destination to show that life’s achievements, if not rooted in love for God and others, are ultimately hollow and will not lead to eternal life.

How does the priest encourage the congregation to face future uncertainties?

The priest encourages the congregation to face future uncertainties with trust in God. He emphasizes that while we do not know what the future holds, we know who holds the future—God. By trusting in His love and guidance, the faithful can face trials without fear and with the confidence that God is always with them.

Why does the priest refer to the 'love letter from God'?

The 'love letter from God' refers to the priest reading out Scripture that reassures the faithful of God's unshakeable love for them. It is a reminder that God has promised to always be with His people, providing comfort, peace, and strength through life’s struggles. This is meant to calm fears and reinforce the message of trusting in God's eternal care.