Fr. Michael Osatofoh Eninlejie, MSP - Homily for the Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary time Year A - October 25, 2020

30TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR A Exodus 22:20-26, Psalm 17:2-4,47,51 1 Thessalonians 1:5-10 Matthew 22:34-40 LOVE IS THE ANSWER The word LOVE is a very common word today especially among teenagers and young adults. It is a word whose meaning has almost become synonymous with erotic feelings and sexual immorality and gratification. The readings of today give us a different perspective to what love means. In the first reading, we see the law of love given to the Israelites as they were about to enter the promised land. No society can survive if the members do not seek the wellbeing of one another. God told them to love and care for the poor, needy, widows, orphans and those who are not privileged in the society. They are not to always seek their interest and gain, but to seek the good of their neighbours. We see how Paul and his companions showed that love of God to the people of Thessalonica in the second reading of today. It was only the love of God and man that would make them go to preach the word of God among poor people. In the gospel reading, we hear Jesus tell us that the greatest law is love. Love of God and of our neighbours. The situation in Nigeria at the moment reflects the fact that human beings have not been treated with love and regard, but as a means to an end. As Christians, we are called to love every human person unconditionally, not counting what we will gain. We cannot love God if we do not love our neighbours. May almighty God help us to truly be people after his own heart. Amen. Fr Michael Osatofoh Eninlejie MSP