First Reading: Eph 6:1-9; Psalm: 145. R. v. 13c; Gospel: Lk 13:22-30

THE SIN OF PRESUMPTION

BY FR VALENTINE NNAMDI EGBUONU, MSP

Jesus warns us today that God will shock some of us who presume they have a place in God’s kingdom on the last day. This warning was originally directed to the Jews of his time who saw themselves as God’s chosen ones and so took it for granted that their place were guaranteed in heaven. But it could also be possible that there are some of us today who act base on this presumptuous attitude as regards our faith. Do we presume that our Church and beliefs are all we need to be saved?

Presumption is dangerous because it encourages denial; the denial of sin. When we presume that our salvation is sure, we become blind to our sins. If we are sure or guaranteed any reward, then there is really no need making effort towards attaining such reward. And no action would be seen as a threat to that reward. This kind of denial closes the door to repentance because if we cannot acknowledge our sins, how then can we repent from them? This is the danger of presumption.

How would we feel if God says to us on the Day of Judgment; “I do not know where you come from? Depart from me all you evil doers” (Lk 13:27). It is not being a Christian or the Church we attend that will save us on that day. It is living by the faith which Jesus sowed in our hearts. It is living by love and charity. Salvation is not something we can inherit or attain by right. It is something we have to work for. Heaven is by merit, not by right. We all need to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. Our Church or belief is not enough to save us. Good works are needed. “The God who created us without our cooperation cannot save us without our cooperation.” (St Augustine).

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Lord God, save us from the sin of presumption. Amen.