Homily for Friday of the 5th Week in Ordinary Time

In today's Gospel reading, we come across an unfamiliar term, "ephphatha," which means "be opened." Essentially, it's a call to acknowledge and embrace the various opportunities that come our way to invite God's friendship and forgiveness into our lives, and to extend the same to those around us.

To observe "ephphatha" is to be grateful for who we are and the blessings that God has bestowed upon us. It is to listen to God's voice amidst all the noise and distractions that surround us, and to seek His presence when we feel overwhelmed by negative emotions like anger, jealousy, and disappointment.

Let us make "ephphatha" our prayer, that we may remain open to God's presence, both in times of happiness and sorrow. This will enable us to bring the love, mercy, and kindness of God into our own lives, as well as the lives of our loved ones and everyone we encounter.