Lord, to whom shall we go?

Aug 23, 2024

21st Sunday in Ordinary Time (B)
Readings: Joshua 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b;
Ephesians 5:21-32;
Gospel: John 6:60-69

In the words attributed to St Ignatius of Antioch, resonates a profound truth: “Wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church.” This sentiment speaks to a universal yearning within humanity, amidst the turmoil and tribulations of the world, to discover a centre — a sanctuary where souls may find solace and purpose. Yet, is this centre a physical abode or a profound journey into the depths of our own existence? Echoing the wisdom of St Ignatius, it is where Jesus resides that the essence of the Church manifests. So long as we are tethered to Him, our anchor in the tumultuous seas of life, our existence finds harmony and meaning.

Recent encounters with young adolescents have unveiled the complexity of their nonlinear struggles. Adrift in a world of constant flux, their lives seem devoid of direction, enveloped in a haze of fleeting pleasures and transient norms. Amidst this societal backdrop, a disconcerting trend emerges — the rise of the “NONEs,” individuals who eschew the embrace of Jesus and the sanctity of the Eucharist. Their pilgrimage no longer leads to the Church but to a transient realm promising temporary happiness.

While some may perceive the younger generation as privileged, the reality paints a starkly different picture. Inheriting a world scarred by pandemic-induced chaos and uncertainty, they stand at the precipice of a fragile reality, grappling with existential dilemmas beyond their years.
How then do we navigate this terrain of spiritual dissonance?

Jesus, in His unwavering resolve, extends to us the gift of the Eucharist — His very essence, His body, and blood — to partake in communion. Though met with scepticism and unrest among his followers, Jesus persists, offering us life through this sacred sacrament. We must rekindle the flame of devotion to Jesus in the Eucharist, for it is no longer a matter of choice but a beacon of salvation.

Throughout biblical history, countless souls have answered the divine call to follow God. Yet, as exemplified in Joshua’s exhortation to the Israelites, the allure of alternative allegiances perpetually beckons. In the face of such temptations, we are impelled not to withdraw from the world but to instill in the next generation the wisdom to discern and choose faithfully.

The decision encapsulated by the Israelites at Shechem resounds through the corridors of time — a testament to the perennial struggle against “alternative loyalties.” Indeed, distractions and temptations abound, but steadfastness in our devotion to Jesus ensures our salvation.

The journey of faith demands unwavering commitment, extending from our initial “yes” to God to the very culmination of our existence. Despite the trials and tribulations that beset us, our steadfast gaze fixed upon Jesus promises salvation and eternal life. For it is through Him that we find the sustenance to persevere, confident in the knowledge that the divine presence walks alongside us, guiding us through the tempests of life.

The decision to follow Jesus, to renounce allegiance to anything that would draw us away from God, to see that only our Lord has “the words of eternal life” is not an easy one and does not promise a carefree life; but it does promise us that the one who calls us will empower us and abide with us so that we may have confidence that “the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6)

May we continue to follow Peter and those faithful disciples in recognising Jesus Christ as the Holy One of God and following Him so that the light of Christ might shine before others that they may see Christ’s presence in us and give glory to our Lord who abides with us always with the light that shines in the darkness, the light no darkness can overcome.