Homily for the Memorial of St. Bonaventure

The warnings directed at Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum compel us to examine the meaning and purpose of miracles. The inhabitants of these lakeside towns in northwest Galilee witnessed numerous miraculous signs and healings performed by Jesus, yet they remained unmoved by His message. In response, Jesus, filled with prophetic anger, criticized their hardened hearts. His miracles were meant to inspire conversion, encouraging a new perspective and lifestyle that would steer people away from selfishness and toward caring for those in need. His healings were demonstrations of His love for suffering humanity, rather than spectacles for His own glory. They aimed to illustrate God's desire for us to form a healthy and compassionate community.

Centuries earlier, Moses confronted Pharaoh, warning him of impending plagues in Egypt. Like Jesus, Moses did not wield his miraculous power for personal glory; in fact, he had to flee into the desert to save his life.

Although he was raised in the luxury of Pharaoh's palace, Moses displayed a strong sense of justice as a young man. His aversion to oppression and mistreatment, along with his refusal to remain idle in the face of abuse, exemplified a deep commitment to justice that would prepare him for his later role as a liberator.

We, too, are called to be liberators, serving those in greatest need and helping them live as God's children in freedom. This is not just a call, but a responsibility we must embrace. Therefore, let us pray for the desire and courage to assist those in greatest need.