Homily by Fr. Yuriy Tychenok on the Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost

Since the creation of this world, people have significantly changed our earth, and along with it, ourselves. Especially people have been changed by money. Today, we can often hear that money can buy everything. And it’s true. We can even buy eternal life with money, and in today’s Gospel Jesus Christ says precisely how — by helping the poor. However, this same money can become a disaster for people.

The world’s best poker player, Stu Unger, had a unique memory. When he was shown one after another the cards from the deck, he memorized each of them, and could confidently name the last one that remained. In addition, Stu Unger was very observant — he remembered every little detail in the game, because he learned it from childhood. Already at the age of 13, he was recognized as the best player in New York in the intellectual game Gin Rummy. When the boy turned 18, he went to Las Vegas to play in the best casinos in the world. Stu Unger won many championships, became very famous and made a lot of money. However, this money ruined him. He began to use alcohol, take drugs, had problems with the mafia and the police. All his friends, his wife and two children turned away from him. Stu Unger died of a heart attack, having lived only 45 years. He was found dead in a cheap hotel room with a few dollars in his pocket.

That is why the Church warns us against the dangers of gambling, drugs, and money. The Lord wants us to be happy, helping and caring for each other. He gives us commandments so that, by fulfilling them, we change this world, filling it with goodness and love. Every smile, sincere conversation, advice, and help to others can make our lives better here on earth and in the future — in eternity.

See also

November 5 St. Michael’s Day at CYM’s Home in Buxton October 7 Parish Feast in Geelong July 27 Homily by Fr. Yuriy Tychenok on the Tenth Sunday after Pentecost