Homily - Wednesday of the Seventeenth Week in Ordinary Time – Cycle II

Readings:

  • Exodus 34:29–35

  • Psalm 99:5, 6, 7, 9

  • Matthew 13:44–46
    Theme: “Shining Faces and Hidden Treasures: Reflecting God's Glory in a Seeking World”

Introduction 

A little boy once saw his mom applying face cream in front of a mirror. Curious, he asked, “Why are you doing that?” She replied, “To look beautiful, sweetheart.” After a moment of watching, he said seriously, “Is it working yet?”
Sometimes, we try all sorts of things to change how we appear. But real radiance doesn’t come from outside—it comes from the presence of God within.

The Word of God

Exodus 34 shows us Moses coming down from Mount Sinai after being in God’s presence—his face is radiant, glowing with glory, though he doesn’t realize it. His encounter with God transforms him visibly, marking him as a mediator of the covenant.

Psalm 99 calls us to worship the Lord in holiness, recalling how God revealed Himself to Moses and Aaron and answered those who sought Him faithfully.

Matthew 13 presents two brief parables—the hidden treasure and the pearl of great value. Both teach us the immense worth of the Kingdom of Heaven. The person who finds the treasure or pearl gives up everything else in joyful sacrifice to possess it.

Connection of the Readings

Moses reflects God’s glory outwardly because he encountered God inwardly. In the Gospel, the seeker who finds the Kingdom gives up everything because he realizes its supreme value. These readings invite us to seek the presence of God daily, and in doing so, reflect His light in our lives—radiant not just in face, but in faith.

Reflection Questions

  1. What am I truly seeking in life? What is my “pearl of great price”?

  2. When people see me, do they see the reflection of God's presence?

  3. How willing am I to give up lesser things to gain the Kingdom of Heaven?

Implications for Daily Living – Jubilee Year & Synodality

In this Jubilee Year of Hope, these readings remind us that hope shines through lives touched by God. Like Moses, we are called to encounter God deeply and reflect His glory visibly—especially in how we relate with others in community.

Synodality calls us to journey together. Just as Moses served the people after meeting God, and just as the seeker sold everything for a greater good, we are called to discern together what truly matters and build a Church where God’s light shines through shared mission and joy.

Inspiration & Motivation

Don’t settle for cheap distractions when you’re made for glory. Let God’s presence be your joy, and your life will shine with more beauty than any mirror can show.

Quote for the Day

  1. “Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces shall never be ashamed.” — Psalm 34:5

Final Thoughts

The world may chase instant rewards, but today’s Word challenges us: Treasure God. Seek His Kingdom. Radiate His presence.
That’s the path to a fulfilled life—and it begins now, in ordinary moments transformed by grace.

Concluding Prayer

Lord God,
You are the treasure of our hearts and the pearl of infinite value. Help us today to seek You above all else.
May we reflect Your presence like Moses, and give ourselves joyfully for Your Kingdom like the wise seekers in the Gospel.
Teach us to walk together with hope, to shine with Your love, and to always choose what truly matters.
Make our lives radiant with Your grace—
in word, in action, and in silent witness.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

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