Expecting the Presence of Jesus

Homily for Thursday of the Twentieth Week in Ordinary Time

Chapters 33 through 39 of the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel have been subtitled, “Hope for the Future.” The reading that we hear today is certainly one that is filled with hope. Through the prophet, God promises that we will receive a new heart and a new spirit. This is followed by an unconditional statement: “You shall be my people, and I shall be your God.”

This book of the Bible is longer than most. A great deal of it has been focused on the need for repentance among the people of Israel. They have wandered from the covenant that was made between them and their God. Sadly, the same can be said about many baptized people. At the time of our Baptism, we were given a white garment to remind us that our sins have been forgiven through this sacrament. The Gospel text for today also speaks about a garment. One of the people who has entered the wedding banquet is accused of coming to the banquet without a wedding garment. It is a reminder to all of us that we need to be ready to experience Jesus even when we are not expecting his presence.

At almost any time of the year, we need reminders that life can be more fervent, more generous; we need not surrender to torpor. Even the hot slow days of summer need not flatten our spirit, leaving us stagnating. We may move at a slower rate in heat and humidity, but the spirit can still be crisp inside. It may not be easy, but in the words of Scripture - we have daily encouragement to new beginnings, and the strength of God’s Word moves us.