The first reading from (Genesis 21:1–21) recounts the miraculous birth of Isaac to Abraham and Sarah in their old age. Though Abraham was 100 years old (Genesis 21:5), God’s promise was fulfilled, proving that no circumstance can limit God's power when He has spoken:
“Is anything too hard for the Lord?” – (Genesis 18:14)
Before Isaac's birth, however, Abraham had fathered Ishmael with Hagar, Sarah’s maidservant, due to their impatience and wavering faith in God's timing (Genesis 16:1–4). When Isaac was weaned, Sarah grew jealous and demanded that Hagar and Ishmael be sent away (Genesis 21:9–10). Although distressed, Abraham complied after God reassured him, saying:
“Do not be so distressed about the boy and your slave woman. Listen to whatever Sarah tells you, because it is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” – (Genesis 21:12)
In the wilderness, when their water ran out, Hagar cried out in despair. God heard her son’s cries and sent an angel to show her a well, saving them both:
“God heard the boy crying, and the angel of God called to Hagar… ‘Do not be afraid; God has heard the boy crying as he lies there.’” – (Genesis 21:17)
Responsorial Psalm: God Hears the Cry of the Poor
The Responsorial Psalm affirmed this divine compassion with the words:
“The Lord hears the cry of the poor.” – (Psalm 34:6)
This verse echoed through the story of Hagar and Ishmael, reminding us that God is attentive to the afflicted, especially when they have been cast aside by others.
Gospel: Jesus Heals the Gadarene Demoniac
In the Gospel from (Matthew 8:28–34) Jesus encountered a man possessed by many demons in the region of the Gadarenes. He cast the demons—who identified themselves as "Legion"—into a herd of swine, which then rushed into the sea and drowned.
This powerful act illustrated Christ’s authority over evil and His desire to restore human dignity and peace. The once-tormented man was found “sitting, clothed, and in his right mind” (Mark 5:15)—a testament to Jesus' healing power.
“For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves.” – (Colossians 1:13)
Homily: Spiritual Truths and Generational Consequences
The homily connected both readings to a deeper spiritual truth: acting outside of God’s will, as seen in Abraham and Sarah's decision to have a child through Hagar, can lead to long-term consequences that affect not only us, but also future generations.
The tension between Isaac and Ishmael’s descendants is often cited as a spiritual root of the ongoing religious and political strife in the Middle East. While this is a complex and sensitive topic, the preacher emphasized that trusting in God's timing is critical to prevent divisions and pain in our lives and lineage.
Key Message: Trust in God's Timing
Desperation and impatience can tempt us to act outside of God's plan. But such actions often come at a cost—emotionally, spiritually, and generationally. God's timing is perfect, and His promises are sure.
“Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” – (Psalm 27:14)
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – (Proverbs 3:5)
Let us learn to trust God fully, remain patient, and believe that what He has promised, He will fulfill, in His time.
Have a blessed day 🙏
Pal Ronnie
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