Homily for Saturday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time

(Ruth 2:1-3, 8-11; 4:13-17; Psalm 128; Matthew 23:1-12)



Introduction 

A man once said, “My grandmother used to pray that I’d find a good wife. My mother used to pray that I’d be a good husband. Now my wife prays that I’ll just take out the rubbish!”
This light story reminds us: real love is shown in small acts of service and humility. Today’s readings invite us to discover God’s blessing in humble faith, loving service, and simple obedience.

The Word of God

  • Ruth 2 & 4: Ruth, a foreigner and widow, shows loyalty to Naomi and works humbly in the fields. Boaz notices her faithfulness, and in time she becomes part of God’s great plan—an ancestor of David and ultimately of Jesus. God blesses her humility and fidelity.

  • Psalm 128: The psalm celebrates the blessings of those who walk in God’s ways: fruitful work, flourishing family, peace and prosperity. It echoes the story of Ruth’s family life being restored by God’s providence.

  • Matthew 23: Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for pride and hypocrisy. He teaches: “The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

Connection of the Readings

The story of Ruth shows how humility and trust in God open the way to blessing. The psalm confirms that those who walk in God’s way will see fruit in their lives. The Gospel warns us against pride and hypocrisy, reminding us that true greatness lies in service. All three readings highlight the value of humility before God and love expressed through service.

Reflection Questions

  1. Am I willing to serve others quietly, without seeking recognition?

  2. How can I imitate Ruth’s humility and trust in God’s providence?

  3. Do I live my faith with integrity, or do I sometimes “say but not do” like the Pharisees?

Implications for Daily Living (Jubilee Year & Synod on Synodality)

  • Jubilee Year: Ruth reminds us to be Pilgrims of Hope—trusting in God’s providence even in times of uncertainty.

  • Synodality: The Gospel challenges us to lead and walk together in humility, not in self-importance. The Church must be a community where service, listening, and accompaniment take priority over titles and status.

Inspiration / Motivation

God often writes His greatest stories through humble people. Like Ruth, our quiet acts of loyalty, kindness, and faith may become part of God’s larger plan of salvation.

Quote for the Day

“Humility is the root of all true greatness.” — St. Bernard of Clairvaux

Final Thoughts

The Lord looks with favour on the lowly. Ruth’s life reminds us that no one is too small or forgotten for God’s plan. Jesus shows us that true greatness is not in titles or positions, but in humble service.

Concluding Prayer

Heavenly Father,
You lifted Ruth from poverty to blessing,
and through her, prepared the way for our Redeemer.
Teach me the beauty of humility,
the joy of quiet service,
and the strength of trust in You.
May I walk in Your ways,
bring blessing to others,
and glorify You in all I do.
Amen.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Image
Homily for the Feast of Saint James, Apostle   🌟 Theme: "Called to Share the Cup: Witness, Sacrifice, and Glory" Readings: First Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:7-15 Psalm: 126:1bc-2ab, 2cd-3, 4-5, 6 Gospel: Matthew 20:20-28 📍 Introduction  A priest was explaining to his catechism class that apostles were not superheroes but ordinary men with extraordinary missions. A little boy interrupted: “Father, if they weren’t superheroes, why did Jesus pick guys with names like James the Greater and James the Lesser? Was that like Batman and Robin?” The class laughed—and the priest chuckled too. “No, my child, it just meant that one was probably older or taller!” This reminds us that God uses ordinary people, not perfect or powerful ones, to do great things—people like James, whose feast we celebrate today. 📖 The Word of God 2 Corinthians 4:7-15 speaks of "treasures in jars of clay"—how the glorious message of the Gospel is carried by fragile, fallible human beings...
Read more
Image
  Pope Leo XIV: A New Chapter of Hope and Courage for the Church By Fr. Mathibela Sebothoma Photo: Deadline In a moment charged with quiet reverence and global anticipation, the white smoke rose over St. Peter’s Square—Habemus Papam. The conclave of cardinals has elected Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A., as the 267th successor of Saint Peter. He has chosen the name Leo XIV , signaling both continuity with the Church’s past and a renewed commitment to mission in our complex and fractured world. Born on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois, Pope Leo XIV is a son of the Americas—North and South. His life has been marked by a deep missionary spirit, intellectual depth, and a pastoral heart. Raised in a devout Catholic family of French-Canadian heritage, he entered the Order of St. Augustine in 1977, professed his first vows the following year, and was ordained a priest in 1982. Educated at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and later awarded a Doctorate in Canon L...
Read more
Image
Homily for Wednesday of the Sixteenth Week in Ordinary Time (Cycle II) : 📖 Readings: First Reading : Exodus 16:1-5, 9-15 — God provides manna and quail to feed His people in the wilderness. Responsorial Psalm : Psalm 78:18-19, 23-24, 25-26, 27-28 — “The Lord gave them bread from heaven.” Gospel : Matthew 13:1-9 — The Parable of the Sower. ✨ “God Provides — Will You Receive?” 👋 Introduction: Today God reminds us of something fundamental: He feeds His people. Whether in the desert or in the Gospel message, God’s care is constant. The real challenge is not whether God provides, but whether we are ready to receive, to trust, and to grow. 😂 Humorous Story: There is a funny story of a man who prayed: “Lord, please give me patience… and I need it RIGHT NOW!” That’s a little like us: we want quick solutions, instant signs, and easy answers. But God, in His wisdom, teaches us to trust His timing and to receive His Word daily, like manna—just enough for today. 📜 Exegesis ...
Read more