Faith and Patience in Times of Struggle

HOMILY FOR TWENTY-SEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, YEAR C

BY REV. AUGUSTINE ADETOLA

The 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C reminds us to trust God, even when life feels

unfair or unclear. In the first reading, Habakkuk cries out over the violence he sees, but

God tells him to wait for His plan. He wonders why God does not do anything in the face of violence and injustice. God responds to Habakkuk with a message of hope. It may take

time, but it will surely happen.

This reminds us that God’s timing is different from ours. When we feel discouraged or

impatient, we must hold onto our faith. Trusting in God means believing that He sees what is happening and will act at the right time. Faith is not just about believing when things are going well. It is about trusting even when we don’t understand.

When we can believe and trust, our faith can move mountains. This is what Jesus made

the disciples to understand in the Gospel today when they asked him to increase their

faith. Jesus tells them that even faith as small as a mustard seed can move a tree. This

shows that faith is not about size but trust. A little real faith can do great things. What

matters is not how much faith we have but how we use it.

To be people of faith, we must learn to use it in the right way by serving others. St. Paul

encourages Timothy to use the gifts God has given him. He reminds him not to be afraid

but to be bold in faith. God gives each person different gifts. Some are called to teach,

some to help, some to lead, and some to encourage others. These gifts are meant to be

used, not kept hidden. Sometimes fear or doubt holds us back. We might feel unworthy or unsure of what we can do.

Living our faith means using what we have to serve others. Whether big or small, every

gift matters. When we step forward in faith, we share God’s love with the world. The Holy

Spirit is always with us, guiding and strengthening us. Faith is not passive; it requires

action. Let us keep believing even when things seem uncertain. Let us serve humbly,

without seeking recognition. By living out our faith each day, we grow closer to God and

become a light to those around us. Lord, give us faith to trust in You even when we do not understand. Help us to serve with love and humility, expecting nothing in return. Strengthen us to use the gifts You have given us to do Your work. May our lives reflect Your goodness and bring others closer to You.

Amen.