Ukrainian Catholic ChurchAustralia, New Zealand and Oceania
Homily by Fr. Zenon Racki on the Fourth Sunday after Pentecost
June 16, 2024
History knows many people who wanted to be a light for others. The same history tells us about the terrible mistakes and false steps of those who followed them. Jesus Christ is the true light of the world. He who walks through life in that true light will never go astray.
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
In these recent Sundays, we celebrated the Sunday of All Saints, the calling of the holy apostles, and the Sunday of all the saints of the Ukrainian land, the Ukrainian people. These beautiful words of the Lord to the Jews come to mind: “I am the light of the world; whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
Let’s consider a driver navigating in darkness without headlights. Such driving is perilous not only for the driver but also for others on the road, likely leading to an accident. Similarly, we are travellers on the road of life, needing light to safely and steadfastly reach our destination. Jesus Christ is that light for us. He declares, “I am the light of the world; whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” None of us can be a light unto ourselves. No person, no matter how much we love or respect them, can truly illuminate our path.
History knows many people who wanted to be a light for others. The same history tells us about the terrible mistakes and false steps of those who followed them. Jesus Christ is the true light of the world. He who walks through life in that true light will never go astray. This truth is evidenced by the countless martyrs, confessors, and holy men and women who joyfully completed their earthly journey with Jesus. Likewise, we too can navigate life without mishap if we follow Jesus Christ.
But why must we prioritise humble service to God’s Word? Christ is the light of our lives; let us not extinguish this light through indifference of heart. St. Ignatius of Loyola discerns three groups of Christians based on their readiness to follow our Lord Jesus Christ.
The first group includes those who profess readiness to give their entire lives to God but remain indecisive and undisciplined, not truly becoming disciples of Christ. Their frequent refrain is “I wish,” akin to the rich young man in the Gospels. These are individuals who desire Christ but lack the will to follow His commands.
The second group comprises those who appear to do everything for God. They are energetic, generous, and zealous, yet their hearts are not fully surrendered to God. Their motto might be “I myself, Lord, will decide what I will do for You.” They often act according to their own ideas rather than seeking God’s will. These individuals act according to their own will.
Lastly, the third group consists of those who say to God, “Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening. I seek Your help and strength in all that frightens or surpasses me.” These are people of genuine faith and resolute will to follow the Lord.
Let us each honestly ask ourselves, “To which of these three groups do I belong?”
