Fr Peter Ireorji, MSP - Homily from 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time year B, Nov. 11, 2018

The two widows 1Kgs 17:10-16 as well as Mk 12:38-44 are true heroes in the sense of being martyrs. The martyrs gave witness to Christ by courageously offering their lives for the sake of the faith. In a similar way, the widow of Zarephath gave to Elijah her last meal and was ready to die afterwards. The poor widow in the gospel of Mark gave clear witness by contributing “all she had, her whole livelihood” to God. Why were they so generous? It was because of their love for God. As we always say, “You can give without loving, but you cannot love without giving.” Jesus showed this when he gave his life on the cross: “There is no greater love than for a man to give up his life for his friends.” The widows had genuine love, and that made their trust God completely, without any fear. They are one of those “poor in spirit” mentioned in the Beatitudes. In their poverty, they turned to God, and offered everything in total surrender and trust in divine providence. It is, therefore, a strong challenge for all of us. Who find it difficult to share to the poor and to contribute to the Church? Perhaps many of us have to be reminded that everything comes from God, and that we are just managers of everything that we have. Or perhaps we are not yet really convinced that God provides and that He can never be outdone in generosity. Are we afraid that God will not do His part of the deal? Then it simply means we do not trust God enough. And definitely, we don’t love Him enough. Let us be consoled that when we give from our lack and from the goodness of our hearts, God will be upon us to embrace us. Shalom!