EMBRACING THE MYSTERY OF THE TRIUNE GOD

 

Homily for the Trinity Sunday (A)

Fr. Ugochukwu Ugwoke, ISch

Scriptural Texts: Exodus 34:4b-6, 8-9, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, John 3:16-18

 

Today is Holy Trinity Sunday and the readings invite us to reflect on the unfathomable nature of the Triune God. The understanding that God is one but three finds its foundation in both Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. While the concept of the Trinity may seem mysterious and difficult to comprehend fully, the Church seeks to explain this profound mystery based on the revelation given to us by God himself.

Our faith affirms the central teaching of monotheism, that there is only one true God as revealed in the Scripture (Deuteronomy 6:4, Isaiah 45:5). In the first reading, this one God reveals his attributes and character to us as being merciful, gracious, and abounding in steadfast love. At the same time, our faith teaches that within this one true God, there are three distinct persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. While the three persons in one God are distinct, they are also co-equal and co-eternal. (Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14, John 14:16-17).

In other words, while there are three distinct persons in the Trinity, they are however united in essence and share the same divine nature. The Father is God, and so are the Son and the Holy Spirit. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit are not separate gods, but one God (John 10:30, John 17:21). The three persons of the Trinity are in a dynamic relationship with one another. They are in perfect communion, love, and harmony (Matthew 3:16-17, John 14:26).

The belief in the Holy Trinity carries profound lessons for Christians. First of all, the Trinity reveals that God is a communion of persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, in a perfect and eternal relationship of love. As Christians, we are invited to enter into this divine relationship and to live in loving communion with one another. We are called to foster healthy relationships, promote unity, and build communities based on love, respect, and selflessness. The Trinity demonstrates that unity can exist amidst diversity. The three persons of the Trinity are distinct, yet they are perfectly united in love and purpose. Likewise, as Christians, we are called to embrace and celebrate our diversity- of cultures, gifts, and backgrounds- while remaining united in faith and love. We are reminded that our differences should not divide us but rather enrich our communities and contribute to the building of God’s Kingdom.

Also, the Trinity reveals the nature of God as love itself. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit exist in a perfect communion of love, constantly giving of themselves for the other. As Christians, we are called to imitate this self-giving love in our relationships with God and with one another. We are called to love sacrificially, to serve others, and to prioritize the well-being of others above our own interests. In addition, the Trinity affirms the equality and dignity of each person within the Godhead. Though the three persons are distinct, they are co-equal in their divine nature. This reminds us that all human beings, regardless of gender, race, social status, or abilities, are created in the image of God and possess inherent dignity. As Christians, we are called to respect and uphold the equal worth of every person, advocating for justice, inclusion, and the protection of human rights.

Lastly, let us remember that the Trinity is a mystery to be contemplated and revered. While we seek to deepen our knowledge and relationship with God, we also recognize the limits of our comprehension. This teaches us humility, trust, and a sense of awe in the presence of the Divine. That is why instead of seeking to fully comprehend the mystery of God, the mystery of the Trinity rather invites us into a relationship of love and communion with God, drawing us deeper into the divine life through faith, prayer, and worship.