6th Sunday after Epiphany
February 12, 2023
Theme: “Go and proclaim: The Judgement and Reconciliation of Christ”
First Reading: Deuteronomy 30:15-20
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:1-3,4-6,16-18
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:6-10
Gospel Reading: Matthew 5:21-26
Homily by Fr. Romie-June Peñalosa
Our gospel reading today reminds us that we are sinners. Yes, we are forgiven and cleansed by God through Christ; but let us not forget that as human beings, we are prone to sin. Oftentimes, we neglect the sin of anger. True, we get angry at our kids who disobey us, or at our friends and family members who offended us; but understand that anger or hatred that stays longer in our heart leads us to sin. And even Christians are not exempted in this.
The bible teaches us that to sin against God is a curse. But there is a greater sin than this; that is when a man causes someone else to sin. In our anger, sometimes we say words that really hurt our loved ones. And these words causes them to hate us and do things that could harm both you and them. We then become the reason why that person committed sin. Jesus reminds us today in the gospel to reconcile with our brothers and that before bringing our gifts and offerings to Him, we should first reconcile with anyone we have offended. After all, God is not after our gifts; He is after our forgiving and loving hearts.
Father Jun reminded us also that to forgive is our responsibility. When our brothers offends us, it is our responsibility to forgive him.
But what if we are the ones who offend others? Our responsibility now is to apologize. When we apologize, it must be sincere. And here, he teaches us the five (5) languages of apology:
1. Say “I am sorry.” Because you realize the bad thing you did. You are not happy with what you have done.
2. Say “It is my fault.” Take responsibility for your mistakes against the person. Admit your fault and acknowledge your mistake.
3. Say “I will not do it again.” Repentance should be evident. The expression of willingness to change must be seen and commitment not to repeat the same thing is promised.
4. Ask “What can I do?” You have to make a amends. Be willing to make a way to repay or rectify the mistake.
5. Say “Please forgive me.”
True reconciliation is possible only when we learn to forgive others and when we learn to apologize for our own offense as well.
Recap by:
MERCY DE LA CRUZ-ESPIRITU
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