Homily - Thursday of the Twenty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

1 Tim 4:12–16; Ps 111; Luke 7:36–50; Matt 11:28

Theme:

“Forgiven to Love, Strengthened to Serve.”



Introduction

Today’s readings bring us face to face with two realities of our faith: God’s mercy that lifts the sinner, and God’s call that strengthens the believer for mission. Both Paul’s encouragement to Timothy and Jesus’ mercy towards the sinful woman show us that God sees beyond weakness and shame. He calls, forgives, and empowers.

Life

A little boy once prayed: “Lord, if You can’t make me a better boy, don’t worry, I’m having fun just the way I am.”
We laugh, but sometimes we too settle with our weaknesses instead of allowing God to transform us. The good news is: God never gives up on us.

The Word of God

  • 1 Timothy 4:12–16 – Paul reminds Timothy that his youth is not an obstacle. What matters is faithfulness: living as an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. His task is to be faithful in teaching and using the gift given by God.

  • Psalm 111 – reminds us of God’s faithfulness. His works are trustworthy and His commands are steady.

  • Luke 7:36–50 – the sinful woman shows love because she has been forgiven much. Her tears, perfume, and humility stand in sharp contrast to the Pharisee’s coldness. Jesus shows that mercy transforms shame into strength.

  • Matthew 11:28 (optional verse) – “Come to me all you who labour and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” Forgiveness is rest for the soul.

Connection of the Readings

Paul’s letter to Timothy tells us that God calls ordinary, fragile people to serve. The Gospel shows us that those who experience mercy become witnesses of love. Together they reveal that God’s plan is not blocked by weakness, age, past sins, or burdens. Mercy and mission go hand in hand.

Lessons for Daily Life

  1. No one is too young, too old, or too broken to serve God.

  2. Forgiveness is the soil where true love grows.

  3. Our lives preach louder than our words.

  4. Mercy should move us to mission, not to pride.

  5. When we rest in Christ, we find strength to face each day.

Motivational / Inspirational

Like Timothy, I may feel unworthy. Like the woman in the Gospel, I may feel ashamed of my past. Yet God does not cancel me; He calls me. My brokenness is not the end, but the beginning of God’s mercy. If I rise today with love, humility, and faith, my life can touch others more than I imagine.

Quote of the Day

“To fall in love with God is the greatest romance;
to seek Him is the greatest adventure;
to find Him is the greatest human achievement.”
— Saint Augustine

Final Thoughts

Mercy is not a licence to remain the same; it is a power that transforms us into people who love deeply and serve faithfully. Today God invites us: Come, rest, be forgiven, and rise to serve.

Message for Those Oppressed in Life

To those who feel ignored, belittled, or trapped in guilt: remember the woman in the Gospel. Jesus sees you. He defends you. He lifts you up when others judge you. Your tears are not wasted; they are prayers that reach His heart. In His mercy, your dignity is restored.

Conclusion

Today’s readings challenge us to live as witnesses of God’s love: to allow forgiveness to heal us, to let mercy make us generous, and to let God’s call shape our mission.

Final Prayer

Lord Jesus,
thank You for Your mercy that forgives my sins
and Your Spirit that calls me to serve.
Teach me to love much because I have been forgiven much.
Strengthen me to be an example in my words, actions, faith, and purity.
Bless all who feel unworthy or crushed by guilt —
may they find rest and healing in You.
Today, may my life reflect Your mercy and proclaim Your love.
Amen.

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