Homily on the 23rd Sunday after Pentecost.
“Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.” Lk 8:46
In todays gospel proclamation we have the account of the woman with the flow of blood which was healed by our Lord the moment she touched the hem of His garment. Furthermore, we have the account of a young girl being raised from the dead. Two miraculous events that could only have occurred via true faith and humility.
Several months ago my stepdad's brother was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer in which was affecting his day to day life. Last Wednesday evening was my sisters birthday and my stepdad's brother was also there. To my surprise he was looking amazing. His hair had started growing back after many harsh radiation sessions and just in general he was looking wonderful.
Hence, from the moment I found out about his cancer I have prayed for him and especially when celebrating the Divine Liturgy I always commemorate him. Of course the radiation therapy has played a big part in his recovery, however I truly believe with all my heart that through all the people that have prayed for him the Lord's hand is truly upon him; rendering his recovery successful!
Thus, if we recall in the gospel of Matthew chapter 17 verses 20 - 21 Jesus exhorts: for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.
Therefore, via faith, trust and humility in the All-Holy-Trinity's unmeasurable love for man, the impossible is made possible! Hence, moving mountains.
Today we celebrate the Synaxis of the Archangel's, Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Salaphiel, Jegudiel, Barachiel, Jeremiel and other bodiless powers.
As we know, the angels have an important part to play in the kingdom of heaven and for us in the Church of Christ our King and God! Not only do they eternally worship God but they are our God's defence, God's messengers, God's healing touch and more.
Furthermore, within the litanies of the Divine Liturgy we hear the deacon acclaim: that the angel of peace assigned to us at birth, be our faithful guide and guardian, ever appealing to God's grace for us.
Therefore, let us always remember that at every moment of our life from the moment we entered this world until we return to the Kingdom of God, we will always have a defender, a protector and an intercessor by our side. What a wonderful gift a Father (God) can give a child.
In addition, may we never forget that our Blessed Mother who was given to us at the foot of our Lord's Glorious cross is our number one intercessor; for a child is a mothers number one priority at all times!
Thus, as the Christmas season draws nearer, may we remember to be charitable to one another by small acts of love and kindness. "By this they will know that you are my disciples" Jn 13:35
Furthermore, by this love and charity, people will come to know the true meaning of Christmas, God coming amongst us so that through Him and Him alone we shall have life and live it to it's full potential!
Therefore, through the prayers of the Theotokos, Saint Joseph Her spouse, the Holy Archangels and our own Guardian angels, Lord Jesus Christ our God have mercy on us and save us!
"My child, get up!" Lk 8:54
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