Let us look beyond our comfort

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

BY REV. AUGUSTINE ADETOLA

The 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C calls us to look at how we treat others. The

readings warn against selfishness and ignoring those in need. God asks us to live with

kindness and care, not to turn away from the poor or weak. This Sunday reminds us that

faith is shown in how we act.

Amos speaks strongly against those who live in comfort while others suffer. His words

show that God wants justice for all people. Psalm 146 tells us that God lifts up the lowly

and cares for the hungry, the sick, and the forgotten. These passages help us see that

following God means helping others, not just caring for ourselves.

Amos speaks to those who live in comfort and ignore the suffering of others. Amos

criticizes those who indulge in luxury while remaining blind to the needs of the poor. This

message is not just for the people of his time but for us as well. We often find ourselves

comfortable in our routines and possessions. It’s easy to focus on what we have and

forget about those who are struggling. Amos reminds us that this kind of complacency can lead us away from God’s path. Our blessings should never make us blind to the needs around us.

In the Gospel, Jesus tells the parable of Lazarus and the rich man. This story is a clear

reminder of what can happen when we focus only on ourselves. The rich man enjoyed his

wealth while ignoring the suffering of Lazarus, who was right outside his door. After

death, the rich man faced judgment, and Lazarus found peace. Jesus’s message is clear:

wealth and comfort are not the problem, but selfishness is. When we fail to see the

suffering of others, we turn away from God’s call. The rich man’s downfall wasn’t his

wealth but his choice to do nothing for Lazarus.

This parable invites us to reflect on our own choices. Are we aware of the needs around

us? Do we use what we have to help others? St. Paul in the second reading tells us that

living a virtuous life means putting God first and serving others. It means being patient,

kind, and steadfast even when life is hard. These qualities help us stay close to God and

prepare for what is to come. They also remind us that true wealth is found in our

relationship with God and our care for others.

The readings challenge us to examine our lives and ask whether we are like the rich man,

insulated from the needs of others by our own comfort. They invite us to consider a life

where our greatest joy comes not from what we have, but from what we give. This

transformation is what God seeks for us, a life where we are truly rich in mercy and

compassion. Lord, help us to see beyond our comforts and to respond to those in need with a generous heart. Teach us to treasure mercy and compassion over wealth, so that we may truly participate in Your work and know the joy of Your Kingdom.