At the heart of St. Paul’s words to the Corinthians is the essential truth of Christ’s resurrection. Without it, there is no hope, no faith, and no power to live the Christian life. The Resurrection is not only a past event but a present reality, empowering believers through the Holy Spirit to labor abundantly by God’s grace.

The feast of St. Bartholomew reminds us that God’s grace works through frail men to accomplish His kingdom purposes. St. Bart, known for his simplicity and loyalty, bore witness even unto death, showing us that true greatness in Christ’s kingdom is found in humility, obedience, and self-sacrificial service.

The prodigal son and his embittered brother both stand in need of the Father’s love. Jesus shows us a God who restores the repentant, pleads with the resentful, and invites all to His banquet. True hope is found not in our righteousness but in the Father’s mercy that welcomes every sinner home.

In Micah’s prophecy, God Himself promises to shepherd His people, feed them in rich pastures, and work wonders greater than the Exodus. This vision finds its fulfillment in Christ, the Good Shepherd, who leads a mixed multitude into the wilderness, heals the sick, and miraculously provides bread for their journey. More than meeting physical needs, He conquers sin and death, offering full pardon and new life to all who believe—Jews and Gentiles alike. As Romans reminds us, we who were once slaves to sin have been set free to serve righteousness. This is the joy of the Gospel: the Lord delights in mercy and remembers His covenant forever

On the mountain, as Jesus prayed, His face shone like the sun and His garments became dazzling white. Moses and Elijah appeared, speaking with Him about His coming “exodus” in Jerusalem—the cross and resurrection that would redeem humanity. The Father’s voice declared, “This is my beloved Son, hear Him!” The Transfiguration revealed Christ’s true glory, confirmed His mission, and strengthened His followers to face the path to Calvary. It is a vision meant to purify, encourage, and transform us into His likeness from glory to glory.

In 2 Samuel 19, King David returns victorious after Absalom’s rebellion, only to be met by Shimei—the man who once cursed him in his exile. Instead of revenge, David offers mercy, modeling humility and self-examination. Paired with Jesus’ call in Matthew 5 to seek reconciliation quickly, this homily challenges us to admit when we’re wrong, pursue peace with those we’ve offended, and extend forgiveness when wronged. True Christian strength is found in humility and mercy.

St. James the Great left everything—family, business, and comfort—to follow Jesus. His life models for us the costly call of discipleship: abandoning worldly affections to walk in obedience to Christ. On this feast day, we are invited to do the same—denying self, taking up our cross, and following our Lord with full devotion.

Solomon had everything—wealth, power, pleasure—yet called it all vanity. Peter labored all night in futility, but with one word from Jesus, his nets overflowed. True peace isn’t found in building our own kingdoms but in listening to and obeying Christ. This 5th Sunday after Trinity, we are reminded that our restless hearts were made to rest in God.

Today marks the midpoint of the Church Year with Trinity Sunday—a celebration of God's self-revelation as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Far from an abstract doctrine, the Trinity is the foundation of Christian worship and life. As we look back on the mighty acts of God from Advent to Pentecost, we now turn toward living in obedience to the Triune God. This holy mystery invites us into deeper worship, humility, and joy—trusting the God who made us, redeemed us, and sanctifies us even now.