REFLECTION/HOMILY FOR THE FEAST OF SAINT JAMES, APOSTLE

FROM FRAGILE VESSELS TO RADIANT WITNESSES: EMBRACING THE EXAMPLES OF ST. JAMES

First Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:7-15
Responsorial Psalm: Ps. 125(126):1-6
Gospel Reading: Matthew 20:20-28
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On the Feast of Saint James, the Apostle, we are called to embark on a profound journey through the corridors of history to encounter a man of remarkable faith, whose life and examples continue to inspire and challenge believers across the ages. James, the brother of John, was among the privileged few who walked alongside Jesus during His earthly ministry, witnessing the miracles, teachings, and profound mysteries of God’s kingdom. His journey as a disciple illuminates the path of selfless service, humility, and the transformative power of encountering Christ. As we delve into the readings of the day, we uncover the timeless wisdom embedded in Saint James’ journey of discipleship. His unyielding commitment to Christ and his selfless devotion to serving others offer us a blueprint for authentic Christian living. Put differently, the readings converge to paint a portrait of a man who exemplifies the essence of true discipleship – a life poured out in the service of others and illumined by the transformative power of Christ’s love.

Beginning with the First Reading (2 Corinthians 4:7-15), the words of Saint Paul resonate deeply with the life of Saint James, who, like every Christian disciple, is likened to an “earthen vessel” carrying a precious treasure – the light of Christ. In the face of trials and challenges, Saint James bore witness to the resilience of faith and the transformative power of Christ’s presence within him. As an Apostle, he encountered hardships and persecutions, but his unwavering conviction in Christ’s salvific mission empowered him to endure and persevere. Saint James teaches us that true greatness lies not in self-aggrandizement but in embracing the humility of being a vessel through which Christ’s love and grace flow to others.

Similarly, in the Responsorial Psalm (Ps. 125/126:1-6), we hear the psalmist’s poetic song, which echoes the joy and wonder of the Israelites’ return from exile, a profound liberation and restoration by God’s hand. This psalm mirrors the spiritual journey of Saint James, who experienced a transformative liberation of the soul through his encounter with Christ. Like the Israelites, he was set free from the chains of ignorance and darkness, embracing the message of salvation with exultant joy. Saint James’ life embodies the truth that when we sow seeds of devotion and service, we shall reap a harvest of abundant blessings from the Lord. In celebrating his feast, we are invited to rejoice in the goodness of God’s providence and to place our hope and trust in His unfailing promises.

And traversing through the Gospel Reading (Matthew 20:20-28), we see the mother of James and John who approaches Jesus with a request for her sons to sit at His right and left in His kingdom. This ambitious plea reflects the human inclination to seek power and prestige. However, in response, Jesus taught them and all His disciples that true greatness lies in humble service and self-sacrifice. This powerful message mirrors the essence of Saint James’ apostleship. He followed Christ’s example, becoming a servant to all, and ultimately drinking from the Lord`s chalice by laying down his life for the sake of the Gospel. The feast of Saint James challenges us to examine our own ambitions and aspirations, inspiring us to emulate his selflessness and dedication to the service of God and others.

Dear friends in Christ, the Feast of Saint James, the Apostle, invites us to journey alongside this remarkable figure and glean invaluable insights from his life of faith. In the spirit of the First Reading, we are called to recognize the treasure of Christ dwelling within us, illuminating our lives and empowering us to face any adversity. Through the lens of the Responsorial Psalm, we find encouragement to sow seeds of the Gospel in tears, trusting that Christ’s transformative power will bring forth an abundant harvest of joy. The Gospel Reading challenges us to embrace the call to servant leadership, selflessly dedicating ourselves to the service of God and others.

On this Feast of Saint James, we are captivated by the brilliant light of his apostolic life. He teaches us that true greatness is not found in seeking positions of honour and power, but in humbly carrying the treasure of God’s love within our fragile hearts. Saint James’ unwavering faith and devotion remind us of the transformative power of encountering Christ, which liberates and restores our souls. As we journey in this earthly pilgrimage, let us heed the profound lessons of selfless service, joyous trust in God’s providence, and the embrace of weakness as a vessel for divine grace. In doing so, we become living witnesses of Christ’s light, shining brightly in a world that longs for the radiant love and mercy of our Lord and Saviour.

(CLICK HERE FOR THE NEXT DAY’S REFLECTION: REFLECTION/HOMILY FOR THE MEMORIAL OF SAINTS JOACHIM & ANNE, PARENTS OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY)

Shalom!
© Fr. Chinaka Justin Mbaeri, OSJ
Paroquia Nossa Senhora de Loreto, Vila Medeiros, São Paulo, Brazil
nozickcjoe@gmail.com / fadacjay@gmail.com

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