Homily for Monday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time based on the specific readings you gave:

Readings:

  • Judges 2:11-19

  • Psalm 106:34-35, 36-37, 39-40, 43ab, 44

  • Matthew 19:16-22



Introduction 

A man once prayed: “Lord, please let me win the lottery, just once!” After weeks of this prayer, a voice came from heaven: “My son, at least buy a ticket!”

The point is: God gives us opportunities and calls us to act, but if we remain tied to our old ways—or to what we cannot let go of—we miss His blessings.

The Word of God

  • Judges 2:11-19: Israel abandons God for idols, and disaster follows. Yet, in mercy, God raises judges to deliver them. Still, they relapse again and again. This shows our human weakness: we know the good but often fall back into sin.

  • Psalm 106: A lament that remembers Israel’s infidelity. They mingled with other nations, adopted their practices, and even sacrificed their children to idols. Yet God, in His mercy, listened when they cried out.

  • Matthew 19:16-22: The rich young man comes sincerely, wanting eternal life. Jesus challenges him to go beyond legal obedience into radical discipleship—selling what he has and following Him. Sadly, the young man clings to his possessions and walks away.

Connection of the Readings

Israel’s struggle with idolatry and the rich young man’s struggle with possessions are the same: misplaced trust. Idolatry is not only bowing to statues—it is anything we value more than God: money, power, comfort, relationships, even our own will. Both texts ask: What are the idols in my life? What do I hold onto so tightly that I cannot give myself fully to God?

Reflection Questions

  1. What “idols” or hidden attachments do I place before God?

  2. Am I willing to follow Jesus beyond mere commandments, into the radical call of love and surrender?

  3. Where do I seek my security: in God, or in possessions, status, or habits?

Implications for Daily Living (Jubilee & Synod)

  • Jubilee Year: A pilgrim travels light. The Jubilee calls us to put aside idols of greed, selfishness, and pride, and to walk with God in freedom.

  • Synod on Synodality: A synodal Church is one that detaches from power struggles and personal gain, learning to walk together in humility, listening, and service.

Inspiration / Motivation

Like Israel, we sometimes fall into the same sins again and again. Like the young man, we may walk away sad because discipleship feels costly. But God’s mercy is greater than our weakness, and His love patiently calls us back.

Quote

“Idolatry is when we say to something created: ‘Save me.’ Only God can save.” — Pope Francis

Final Thoughts

The story of Israel and the young man is our story too. The good news is that Jesus doesn’t just point to eternal life—He is eternal life. If we let go of what binds us, we will find in Him the joy that never fades.

Concluding Prayer

Lord God,
I confess that many times I turn to false idols—
comforts, possessions, and fears—
instead of trusting You completely.
Give me the courage to let go of what holds me back.
Teach me to walk lightly as Your pilgrim,
listening to Your Word,
and following Your Son with a free and joyful heart.
When I stumble, lift me up again in mercy,
that I may live as Your faithful child.
Amen.

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