THE POWER OF OUR CHOICES

 

Homily for the Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B

Fr. Ugochukwu Ugwoke, ISch

Scripture Texts: Joshua 24:1-2a, 15-17, 18b; Ephesians 5:21-32; John 6:60-69

Every day, we are faced with countless decisions, big and small. Whether it is choosing what to wear, deciding on a career or vocation path, or determining how to treat others, our lives are shaped by the choices we make. These decisions can define our future, influence the lives of others, and even shape our relationship with God. The ability to choose is one of the greatest gifts God has given us, but with this gift comes the responsibility to make choices that align with our faith and values.

Our readings for this Sunday teach us about the power of our choices. In the first reading, Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel at Shechem and presented them with a choice: “If it is displeasing to you to serve the LORD, choose today whom you will serve” (Joshua 24:15). Joshua set an example by declaring, “As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15). Joshua’s challenge to the Israelites is a challenge to us as well. In a world filled with distractions, false idols/religion, craze for wealth, and competing/conflicting voices, we must decide whom we will serve. Will we choose to follow God, or will we be swayed by the allure of materialism, power, or selfish desires? Our choices define our relationship with God and our commitment to living a life of faith.

In the second reading, St. Paul speaks about the relationships within a Christian household, particularly the relationship between husband and wife. He urges mutual love and respect, stating that just as Christ loved the Church and gave himself up for her, so should husbands love their wives (Ephesians 5:25). The choice to love as Christ loved is not always easy, especially in the context of marriage and family life. It requires patience, humility, selflessness/sacrifice or a willingness to put the needs of others before our own. But this choice, when made with sincerity and faith, can transform relationships and create a household rooted in God’s love.

The Gospel reading presents us with another profound moment of decision. After hearing Jesus speak about the necessity of eating his flesh and drinking his blood (John 6:53-56), many of his disciples found his teaching difficult to accept. They grumbled, “This saying is hard; who can accept it?” (John 6:60). As a result, many of them chose to turn away and no longer followed him (John 6:66). Jesus then asked the Twelve, “Do you also want to leave?” (John 6:67). Peter’s response is one of the most powerful expressions of faith in the New Testament: “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God” (John 6:68-69).

This passage reminds us that following Jesus often involves making difficult choices. The path of discipleship is not always easy or popular, but it leads to eternal life. Like the disciples, we are called to choose whether we will stay with Jesus, even when his teachings challenge us, or whether we will turn away when the cost of discipleship becomes too high. This choice is not a one-time decision but a daily commitment to align our lives with God’s will.

As we reflect on these readings, let us remember that life is a series of choices, and the decisions we make have far-reaching consequences for ourselves, our relationships, and our relationship with God. Let us ask for the grace to make choices that honor God, build up our communities, and lead us closer to eternal life. May we, like Joshua, Peter, and Paul, choose to serve the Lord, love others as Christ loves us, and remain steadfast in our faith, trusting that the path we choose with God is the path that leads to true and lasting joy, Amen.