Homily for Thursday of the 3rd Week of Lent

Some people who witnessed Jesus casting out a demon from a mute man believed that He did it through the power of Satan rather than recognizing it as God's power at work in Him. This was a significant misjudgment. In response, Jesus proclaimed that it was through the power of God that He healed people.

Sometimes, we fail to see God's work among us, especially when it happens through those we may not always agree with. God blesses us in various ways, yet we often overlook these gifts. Instead of concentrating on what we lack or what is wrong in our lives, we should recognize and express gratitude for the blessings God has given us.

We should pray for the ability to see as Jesus sees. He recognized God's work in creation, the sower, the vineyard, the flowers of the field, and the birds of the air. Jesus also saw God's presence in people others had dismissed due to their imperfections and faults. He teaches us to look with eyes of generosity, hope, and mercy. When we do this, we will feel inspired to give thanks in all circumstances, just as St. Paul encouraged us to do.