21^ST SUNDAY, YEAR C: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “THE PATH LESS TRAVELLED IN OUR LIFE”

INTRODUCTION

The readings today tried to remind us of the roads/paths less travelled in our life. The “narrow paths” that we intentionally try to avoid as we journey through our faith-life; we try to avoid these paths because we misjudge them to bring some kind of discomfort to us and not convenient for our joy. But indeed, it is these less convenient narrow paths that are less travelled, like the stone which the builders rejected, that turns out to be the cornerstone of our development, happiness and salvation.

 

THE FIRST READING (IS. 66: 18 – 21)

One path less travelled mentioned in the first reading is the path of proclaiming the glory of God to the nations. It is a path less travelled by many because many would prefer to remain in their comfort zones. Such was the case of Israel of old that God would sometimes permit wars to displace them from their comfort zones, sending them as fugitives to the nations and distant coastlands who have never heard of the fame and glory of God; these fugitives would then bring the Goodnews to the nations where they are scattered. The Psalmist today invited us to go out to the world and tell the Good News. But it is a path that is less travelled. Let us remember that God the Son (Jesus) had to leave the comfort of heaven and his Godship, emptied himself, to become man to make the glory of the Father known to the world.

 

THE SECOND READING (HEB. 12: 5 – 7, 11 – 13)

Another path that seems to be less travelled mentioned in the second reading is the path of discipline/training. Many children, for example, would not like to be disciplined by their parents for any reason. But the Bible tells us today that whom the Lord loves, he disciplines and scourges. Discipline entails that you must not have it your own way all the time, but God’s way or your “superior’s way”. At first instance, God’s discipline/ways may seem to cause us pain rather than joy, yet later it brings peace and righteous fruits to those trained in it. We may not enjoy the path of discipline now but later it builds us into great men and women. This narrow path of discipline demands obedience, humility and respect to God, constituted Church/state authorities, to our parents. It also demands repentance from our indiscipline and disobedience against God’s commands.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (LK. 13: 22 – 30)

In the gospel, against being forced into going into the world to proclaim the Good News, Jesus freely went through towns and villages teaching as he made his way to Jerusalem. He was never forced out of his father’s house or his comfort zone.

 

CONCLUSION

We are invited today to strive to enter through the narrow gate; to embrace those narrow paths less travelled in our life: the path of bringing the Goodnews to the nations, the path of leaving our comfort zones, the path of discipline, obedience and humility. Our less travelled paths could also be the path of prayer, the path of service to others, the path of charity, the path of forgiveness. Walk through these paths more often, and God will never deny us nor cast us out of His kingdom on the last day.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

 21^st Sunday, Year C: Homily by Fr Isaac Chima

Narrow Door: The Sole Entrance that Leads to Salvation

Readings: Is. 66:18b-21; Heb. 12:5-7,11-13; Lk. 13:22-30

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, the question posed by the young man in today’s gospel reading to Jesus is of significant importance. He sought to understand whether the number of people who will enter heaven on the final day is few or many. For the Jews of his era, it was believed that only those from the twelve tribes of Israel – the descendants of Abraham – would be saved. Similarly, some Christians hold the view that only members of their churches or solely Christians will be saved on that day. So, today, the Church aims to clarify this notion.

The answer to the question regarding the number of people who will be saved was provided in today's first reading, where Isaiah answered a similar question. The Psalm for today also affirmed it.

In the first reading, while discussing the return of the Israelites from exile after forty-seven years in 540 BC, Isaiah foretold that God is gathering individuals from all nations, races, languages, and religions to witness His glory in Jerusalem; that God is bringing people from all corners of the earth to His home. Thus, the invitation to enter heaven has been extended to all, and everyone possesses an equal chance to enter this dwelling and partake in the glory of God.

The response of Jesus to the question posed by the young man in today's gospel illustrates what should truly concern every Christian regarding eternal life. Rather than informing the young man of the number of people who will be saved, Jesus encouraged him to reflect on whether he himself would be among those that will be saved.

Actually, Jesus affirms that God wants all persons to experience eternal life; however, he emphasizes the necessity of our unwavering fidelity and vigilance throughout our lives. Jesus reminds us that although God wants all of us to be saved, we must actively strive for this salvation. Admission into God's kingdom is not automatically bestowed upon anyone based solely on their religious affiliation, nationality, or connections; therefore, we cannot take God's mercy for granted and remain passive in our response to His invitation. Instead, our daily, concrete choices and actions should reflect the response we have made to God's call.

Some people have responded affirmatively to God's invitation; however, their lifestyle often contradicts the commitment they have made. To such individuals, Jesus warns that on the final day, they will be found at the door pleading, 'Open the door for us,’ but He will respond that He does not know them. Therefore, dear friends, the Church encourages us to reflect personally on whether our current way of living will secure our admission into God's glory and whether our individual lives align with the 'Yes' we responded to God's invitation to partake in His glory.

In today's gospel, Jesus refers to the narrow door as the sole passage to eternal glory. But what exactly is this narrow door? It represents self-discipline, the way of the cross; it is the life pattern of rejecting sin, even when those around me choose to embrace it; it is the choice to serve Christ, even when those around me opt to worship the devil; it is the commitment to stand with Christ in all life’s circumstances, even if it involves suffering due to this choice and even if it means standing alone; it is the resolve to lead a holy life, even if other people around me have chosen sinful paths and may ridicule me for not joining them.

Dear friends, the narrow door brings sorrow and demands patience and strength from us. This is the message conveyed in the second reading of today. The author of the letter to the Hebrews wants us to see every experience of the narrow door as a form of correction that a loving father gives to his son. We understand that every act of correction or discipline from a loving father is ultimately for the benefit of the child who receives it. To the child undergoing correction or disciplinary action, the father's behaviour may appear as hatred or malice; however, the father is aware of the advantages his actions will yield for the child's future. Dear friends, if we interpret our experience of the narrow door as a type of correction from God, we will willingly embrace any discomfort it may cause us, fully aware that glory awaits at the end of such an experience.

Let us conclude this reflection by reading the experience of Jesus as presented in the early verses of this second reading. It said, “Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from the beginning to the end. He did not give up because of the cross! On the contrary, because of the joy that was waiting for him, he thought nothing of the disgrace of dying on the cross, and he is now seated at the right-hand side of God’s throne. Think of what he went through - how he put up with so much hatred from sinners! So, do not let yourself become discouraged and give up. For in your struggle against sin, you don’t have to give up until the point of shedding your blood.” (Heb. 12:2-4)

Peace be with you

Rev. Fr. Isaac Chinemerem Chima

 21^ST SUNDAY, YEAR C: REFLECTION BY FR. JULIAN EKEH

THEME: IN JESUS' NAME, YET...

(Luke 13:22-30)

Today, Jesus presents us with the surprises of the last day. This is a warning to us and should serve as a guide to us in our Christian living.

 We are called to be aware of where we came from, where we are and where we are going to.

The above awareness will merit us enjoyment of the salvation brought by our Lord Jesus Christ.  We shall no longer worry if many or few will be saved, but try as individuals to get in ourselves and not derail.

Be that as it may, those called by the Lord's name, confuse God by making Him ask if these are really from Him or not. Are you bearing God's name and without representing Him well? Have you moved out using the name of your God to deceive people? Are you not confusing God by the type of life you are living? 

We should be marked out by godliness; it doesn't matter where we are. But are we known by God? Are our activities approved by Him? Do we allow Him to direct us? Is His Spirit operating in us? If so, He will acknowledge us on the last day for the good name, but if not... the Holy name of God cannot be dishonoured.  Hence the reply: "I do not know where you are coming from". God forbid!

 

BUT WHERE ARE YOU COMING FROM?

When people mention the name of their father in traditional Igbo setting, they are looked upon to see a resemblance of their Father in them, maybe by the way they speak, act or react to issues. When you represent well you will hear assertions as: You are a true son of your father, "Nna gi muru gi".

When on the other hand you misbehave, people wonder where you came from. Are you sure You are the Son of Okonkwo? It is not what you say that makes people to conclude about where you are coming from but what you do. In the sight of God too, how we live tell where we are coming from. Thus, the word of God says: Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.

We should always be ambassadors of Christ. But unfortunately, we have most of the time used the name of the Lord as a cover up for evil. May God forgive us.

 

MY NAME? I STILL DO NOT KNOW WHERE YOU'RE FROM

This is coming from a sad, disappointed and heartbroken Father. You went wearing a white garment which I your father sew for you but where are you coming from dressed like a harlot? You went out without my permission where did you go to? I created you as a man why did you make yourself a woman? You went out with a talent I gave you but where are you coming from? You started well, what happened? You entered that political position as a Christian but under your watch Christians and Christian principles suffered the worst persecution. You have deceived all but you can't deceive your God.

Let us not forget we are responsible and answerable for what we are doing with the opportunity God has given to us. We can't really stand to answer, our actions should. When we fail to present the necessary credentials, then we will be forced to start giving excuses.

 

WONDERFUL EXCUSES

The Lord gives us opportunity today to amend our ways now instead of giving excuses when it is late. He is calling on us not to lose our identity in the world.  He wants us to know that the day of reckoning awaits each one of us. He wants us to keep God and His will ever in mind so as not to stammer on the last day: 'But it is in your name that we did XYZ'.

This is the usual way man takes issues back to God. There will be no room for that when it is late.

Adam gave his excuse, it was Eve, the woman you gave me; meaning that God was responsible, it was in His name that he did what he did. Cain, but am I my brother's keeper; meaning that God never commanded him to be his brother's keeper. Saul, that was told to kill all, when confronted said he brought back those animals in the name of God to sacrifice to Him. The New Testament Saul as well claimed he was fighting for God till he was arrested.

Some people of the third world nations who travel to developed countries in the name and permission of their countries end up most of the time committing crimes and blame it on the poor condition of their homelands.  Yet others from those countries make their fatherland proud by standing out positively.

The word of God arrests you today to evaluate what you do with your life here on earth now. It is a call on us to stop deceiving ourselves thinking we can deceive God. It is a reminder that the name of the Lord is sacred. Thus, we should stop living questionable lives that would make people ask where we are coming from and make God wonder if actually we are those called by His name at Baptism, His children and those who should inherit His kingdom.

May God bless His word in our hearts.

LET US PRAY

Almighty and merciful God, we call upon you. Help us to live as your true sons and daughters in this world.  May we not dishonour Your Holy Name. May we not lose focus of where we came from and where we are going to. May we live as true Christians bearing testimonies for You wherever we find ourselves. May we be welcomed and not sent out from Your presence. Bless and keep us in Your Name that we may be one with You in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen

Happy Sunday (21st Sunday, Ordinary Time, Yr C)

Rev. Fr. Julian O. Ekeh

 20^th Sunday Year C: Homily by Fr Isaac Chima

The Gospel of Christ: a message that overthrows the peace of the graveyard

Readings: Jer 38:4-6,8-10; Heb 12:1-4; Lk 12:49-53

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, today's gospel presents some of the most challenging statements made by Jesus: two sayings that would be hard to accept as originating from Him if not properly interpreted. They are as follows: "I came to cast fire upon the earth; and would that it were already kindled.” "Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division."

We are all aware that our Lord Jesus is the prince of peace. On the night of His birth, the angels who appeared to the shepherds proclaimed the beginning of the reign of peace on earth. They sang, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men of goodwill." Throughout His teachings, Jesus emphasized peace, particularly in the beatitudes, where He stated, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God." On the numerous occasions He appeared to his disciples after His resurrection, He greeted them with 'peace be with you’. Thus, it becomes quite challenging to comprehend how this God of peace would assert that He has come not to bring peace but division within familial relationships and that He has come to cast fire upon the earth.

A misunderstanding of these sayings of Jesus by certain Christians has resulted in unnecessary divisions and issues among family members, various churches, and communities; it has also caused some individuals to adopt prayer patterns that cannot be classified as Christian. While some of these Christians perceive prayer as invoking fire upon all their adversaries, some others take pride in distancing themselves from the positive actions that others are undertaking in society.

Therefore, the Church urges us to comprehend the significance of these two challenging sayings of Jesus to avoid aligning with those who misinterpret them. When Jesus stated that He has come to cast fire upon the earth, He meant that He has come to proclaim a gospel that will dismantle the structures of evil in the world like fire, that His gospel will not reinforce the status quo of evil within human communities or societies, but rather, it will incinerate them like fire. This is the kind of gospel message that Jesus has entrusted to us. This is the call we have received from Jesus as Christians. Our mission is to confront and oppose the dominion of evil and the moral decadence of our world with the message of the gospel. The authentic gospel of Christ does not remain passive where evil flourishes, and a genuine Christian does not stay silent where evil is endorsed.

Whenever this type of gospel, which has the power to eradicate evil and challenge malevolent policies and teachings, is proclaimed, it inevitably leads to attacks and divisions from those aligned with evil. Dear friends, wherever the message of Christ is preached, it shakes the foundation of the false sense of peace that the world often promotes, because the peace offered by Christ is fundamentally different from the peace the world gives. The peace of Christ is characterized by love, justice, equality, and equity, fostering the reign of goodness. In contrast, the peace of the world is often like the peace of a graveyard. In a graveyard, there is an appearance of silence, serenity, and tranquillity; however, those interred in it are subject to the ravages of decay, being consumed by worms and suffering from the effects of time. The graveyard seems peaceful simply because the deceased cannot voice their suffering. The world sometimes misinterprets this silence of the graveyard as true peace. Frequently, the locations deemed peaceful by society are so only because those enduring injustice, marginalization, and deprivation are unable to speak out against their plight, or they are threatened by forces that would harm them if they dared to raise their voices. Jesus did not come to establish the kind of peace that permits silent suffering and the continuation of injustice. Instead, he brings forth a peace that will dismantle the false peace of the world, overthrowing all structures of injustice and the wicked one.

It is, therefore, the responsibility of every Christian to promote the peace of Christ throughout the world. We are called to achieve this by confronting erroneous teachings regarding morality, sexuality, justice, humanity, and so forth, using the gospel of Christ. However, fostering the peace of Christ on earth may require swimming against societal currents, which can result in persecution. This was the case of Jeremiah in the first reading. Jeremiah stood against the evil present in his city during King Zedekiah's reign. He used the word of God to challenge the reign of evil and condemned his fellow prophets who preached solely about prosperity without urging the people to repent from their wrongdoing.

Jeremiah was aware of the repercussions of his actions, yet he remained steadfast. The second reading of today encouraged us to be resilient like Jeremiah and to persist in our battle against sin and evil, even if it entails sacrificing our lives in this struggle. This second reading encourages us to consistently fix our gaze on Jesus as we combat sin and evil. Fixing our gaze on Jesus means not being discouraged. If we fix our gaze on Jesus, He will not let us down. When Jeremiah was imprisoned and cast into the cistern, God did not forsake him but rescued him from that pit.

The psalm for today is a hymn of praise to God, who will not forsake us to the power of our adversaries, but will consistently deliver us. It states, “I waited, waited for the Lord, and he stooped down to me; he heard my cry. He drew me from the deadly pit, from the miry clay. He set my feet upon a rock, made my footsteps firm.” (Ps. 40:1-2)

Let us pray that God will continue to keep us safe when people rise against us for speaking against evil in society.

Peace be with you. Have a blessed Sunday

Fr Isaac Chinemerem Chima.

 

20^TH SUNDAY, YEAR C: REFLECTION BY FR JULIAN EKEH

THEME: CHRIST'S BRAND OF DIVISION BETTER THAN THE PEACE OF THE WORLD

(Luke 12:49-53)

There is time for everything under the earth and a purpose for every activity. There is time to be silent and time to speak up. There's time when silence is golden and other times when it is evil. There are moments when not speaking is noble and other times when speaking is not acceptable. Divine wisdom helps to strike the balance. Christ speaks out with passion His line of action and His idea of mission. He voiced aloud His vision for the world in relation with God and their acceptance of the word. He speaks in wisdom with imageries. He disclosed the contents of His package for us in the world.

FIRE UPON THE EARTH

Of all things, fire? Jesus, Why fire? Yes! It is figurative. Jesus has come to cast fire upon earth. The fire may be inviting. The fire of invitation which Moses saw and drew closer to God. Thus, with this fire, Jesus invites us to closer relationship with Him, to a more personal rapport with God, to a more intimate understanding of the will of God for us. It is a sublime fire of the Divine awareness; it is a fire that calls for human attention. It is a fire that takes us away from every distraction.

This fire is also a purgative one, it plays a purification role, it refines. Jesus sets a fire that brings about the gold in us. The fire is meant to make us shine; the fire is meant to cleanse us from every defilement. It is meant to burn to ashes whatever that is not of God. It burns away evil that good alone may remain.

Here is a story of a community where a wild devouring beast attacked a community and killed some men of integrity, an alarm was raised and the entire hunters in the community came out and pursued the beast and it ran into the big forest of the community known as "ohia ika". They took counsel and decided to set ablaze the forest with the hunters surrounding all the corners of the forest. When the fire became very threatening and started burning the wild beast, it cried out from the forest and was shot dead.

This is what the fire of Jesus has come to do in the world; to make evil and evil men so uncomfortable that they are made to change or are destroyed.

Another perspective from which we can view the purpose behind the fire that our Lord Jesus Christ is coming with is as figure representing zeal. It stands for the zeal in Jesus. It is a pointer to the zeal that should burn in us for the sake of Jesus Christ. How zealous are we for heavenly things? Are we zealous Christians? Are we passionate in defending the integrity of things of God? Are we passionate in our personal prayer life, in our communal spiritual participation and in our defence for moral positions of the Church of Jesus Christ on earth? Jesus is not calling for weak Christians, Jesus is not advocating for Catholics who just come to Church on Sundays, Jesus is disapproving spiritual and moral indifferentism. For Him therefore, it is either we burn with the fire and zeal for goodness or we are burned by the fire that purges. The fire is a dividing line. It is a differential fire. It separates good from evil. It attacks that which threatens clarity. The fire is the source of light. There can't be marriage between the duo. In His division mission, Jesus draws a line between darkness and light. Jesus wills that this light be kindled no matter what it takes. It took Him a fire baptism. It will also please Him that we all queue in to see to it that His will is accomplished in us.

PEACE ON EARTH? NO, INSTEAD DIVISION

This is surprising. Is this really the Jesus we know? The Jesus we read about in the prophecy of Isaiah? The Jesus called the Prince of peace? The Jesus that would command his disciples to greet every house: peace be with you? The Jesus that would impact peace on the apostles after his resurrection? Why would He now turn to contradict what He stands for?

There is indeed no contradiction. However, what there may be is definition of peace by Jesus. If peace would mean condoning evil, Jesus would not allow that. If peace would imply not pushing hard to condemn anomaly Jesus would not permit it, rather, He will choose the opposite. If peace would mean sacrificing virtues on the altar of immorality, Jesus would rather preach division. If peace would mean keeping quiet when my daughter is dressing indecently to an occasion, Jesus says no. Better to make the evil doer feel offended and change than allow him to offend God and make you offend God.

We have to ask ourselves some pertinent questions: what is it that is bonding our Union? What's the thing that we overlook which we are not really supposed to overlook for peace to reign? Let us make peace with God and not with the world. Let our peace with people be on the ground of godly characters they possess. Let us not seek our own peace. Let us not work with the enemies of Christ. Jesus says: "If you're not with me you are against me." The peace of the world is against the peace of God. It is the peace that says: oh, let us allow homosexuals to relax in their practice. For peace to reign let us pass abortion into law, for the peace of the suffering man let us help him die. For peace to reign let the man marry the animal. This peace Jesus condemns is a type that says in order not to hurt my dad I join the secret society, in order not to hurt my mum I will not help that poor woman, in order not to bring shame to my father who is a catechist let me abort that baby, in order to have peace with my aunty let me do the prostitution.

 

RESOLVE

Let us not be at peace until everyone around us becomes at peace with God.

May God bless His word in our hearts.

LET US PRAY

Oh Lord, save us from the temptation of currying favour with enemies of God in the name of peace. May the peace and love of God in all its richness dwell in us, in our homes, in our land in the Church and in the world at large through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Happy Sunday to you. (20th Sunday, Ordinary Time, Yr C)

Rev Fr. Julian O Ekeh

 20^th SUNDAY, YEAR C: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “PERSEVERING IN THE WORK OF FAITH/GOD”

INTRODUCTION

The readings today present us with the daring and harsh reality of doing the work of Faith/God (i.e. bearing witness to truth, love and goodness) either as a king, prophet, disciple or just as a steward in the family of God. In the first reading, Jeremiah withstood opposition from his own people to bear witness to the truth, the king faltered to stand by the truth; Ebed-Melech took up his own challenge as a steward. Jesus stood firm with his mission as seen in the second reading. How firm are you in witnessing/living your faith?

THE FIRST READING (JER. 38: 4 – 6. 8 – 10)

In the first reading, four classes/groups of people were identified:

The group of Jeremiah: those who stand by the truth of the word and commands of God not because it is so sweet, but because it is the right way of life. Jeremiah kept preaching repentance to his people who preferred living amoral lives to any rule of life. Minority factor, attack and threat to his life did not make Jeremiah change or sugar coat his prophetic message.

The group of the princes of the peoples: this group do not want any message that will challenge their moral decadence. They want to feel no guilt; and so, Jeremiah must die, must be silenced, or leave the scene for them to thrive. They do not want to hear the truth. They cherished personal pleasure and indifference to any right or wrong way of living their faith. They used their majority vote, their positions and connections to silence Jeremiah, the truth and God so to say.

The group of Ebed-Melech: this the group of strangers, the minority voice, the steward/servant of the king, the uninfluential, those who think that their voice will not count in the scheme of things. The Ethiopian, Ebed-Melech summoned courage and raised his single/tiny voice to the king and that was enough to effect the release of Jeremiah from the dry pit.

The group of the king: this group of Zedekiah doesn’t know what to do with their power and position. This group is neither warm nor cold, neither for nor against; always changing opinions as it suits the majority; kill Jeremiah for he is lying he accepts, save Jeremiah for he is telling the truth, he also accepts. This group doesn’t like taking any stand at all, they will please everybody. What will God do with this kind of persons? Spit them out.

THE SECOND READING (HEB. 12: 1 – 4)

The second reading challenged us to run with perseverance, the race that is set before us, looking up to Jesus who endured opposition from sinners, hostility of the Jews, the shame of the cross, to carry on with his mission. We are encouraged not to allow any weight of sin, oppression, persecution or opposition to hinder us from witnessing for Christ and for the truth.

THE GOSPEL READING (LK. 12: 49 – 53)

In the gospel reading, Jesus made us to understand that being his disciples will certainly light up the fire of attack, opposition and division amongst brothers, sisters and family. Family, kinsmen will certainly come against you, but you must stand firm in the truth and in God’s righteousness.

CONCLUSION

We must persevere; not in our indifference, not in our pleasures, not in the bandwagon or erring majority; but in the truth and righteousness/goodness of our faith in God.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin.

 SOLEMNITY OF ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY: REFLECTION BY FR JULIAN EKEH

ASSUMPTION: DIVINE APPRECIATION OF MARY'S CONTRIBUTION

(Luke1:39-56)

Today is the solemnity of Assumption. We celebrate today that Mary having completed the course of her early life was assumed body and soul into the heavenly glory. This was proclaimed as a dogma by pope Pius XII in the Apostolic Constitution munificentisimus Deus of November 1,1950. This is a celebration centred on obedience to the will of God. This is a manifestation of the power of God. This celebrates a covenant-keeping God who appreciates one who keeps his part of the covenant. We are celebrating fullness of divine grace. We are celebrating the one who cooperated with divine grace. We are celebrating a temple of the Holy Spirit which cannot be destroyed, not even by death. We are celebrating the one who left no space for sin and as such is incorruptible. We are taking our turns to join the many generations that will call Mary blessed. We are celebrating the strength of God's hand on Mary.

 

ASSUMPTION NOT ASCENSION

Mary remained a docile instrument in the hand of God and remained so till the end. In her own words: "I am the handmaid of the Lord let it be done to me according to your word". It is by virtue of her being the mother of God that she is being celebrated. Meanwhile we are not celebrating Ascension. No. Technically Ascension is reserved for Christ. Ascension speaks of Christ's entry into heaven by His own power. In Assumption on the other hand, Mary was taken up body and soul by the power of God. She did not take the flight on her own accord or initiative.

 

IS IT IN THE BIBLE?

The Bible recorded Elijah and Enoch in the Old Testament as being taken up. Meanwhile no one entered heaven before the resurrection of Christ. If some men in the Hebrew testament were granted the favour of having their lives accepted by God on account of their fidelity, it cannot be difficult to accept the tradition handed down through endless ages that Mary was assumed into heaven. Be that as it may, the Bible never contradicts the fact that Mary was assumed. Mary actually may have died. The eastern rite of the Church celebrates the sleep of Mary. But the truth is that she was not found by the apostles because she was assumed into heaven. Why? The Body is the same that was given to Jesus. "The word took flesh". Whose flesh? Is the question. Mary's. So the resurrected body of Christ was taken from Mary. Thus the source of that resurrected body cannot know decay.

As an addendum, we read in revelation 11:19 that the heavens were opened and the ark of God's covenant could be seen inside the sanctuary. Mary is that ark of covenant. She is the one that carried the saviour. Next chapter,12 continues: a great sign appeared in the heaven: a woman...she was pregnant. Who could this woman be?  This narrates the story of the ordeals of Mary and all she passed through because of Jesus. Will she go unrewarded? She was taken to a place where she would be looked after by God, where God prepared for her(Rev 12:6).

She is indeed the new Eve. The first was shown the way out of Paradise. The New was led into it.

 

LESSONS

FULFILLED LIFE

Mary fulfilled her mission on earth in obedience to divine will. Let us learn from her to derive our joy in doing the will of God.

 

LIFE OF GRACE

Mary was filled with grace and cooperated with it. Let us not take God's grace and mercy for granted.

 

THE LORD REWARDS

No matter what we are passing through here on earth, the Lord sees. He will reward us according to our deeds. May we like Mary be rewarded for fighting good fight.

 

FAITH AND HOPE

Mary's faith was a strong one. And she pondered hopefully on the goodness of God. Let us develop strong faith in God and in what He's doing in our lives.

 

THANKFULNESS

Mary lived a thankful life for God's grace upon her. God appreciates Mary with glory for giving Him a body. Let us appreciate Christ who gives us His Body and entire being daily with good life.

 

SINLESSNESS

Let us like Mary be filled with the Holy Spirit during our life time so as to be taken up to God at the end of our life.

May Mary assumed into heaven obtain for us grace to cooperate with God, work with Him here and live with Him for ever in heaven through Christ our Lord. Amen

Happy Sunday and Happy Solemnity of Assumption.

Maria Assumpta, pray for us.

Rev Fr Julian O Ekeh

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary: Homily by Fr Isaac Chima

Theme: Death can’t overcome God’s beloved.

Readings: Rev.11:19a, 12:1-6a.10ab; 1 Cor. 15:20-27; Lk 1:39-56

The Catechism of the Church teaches us that at the end of the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, she was taken up to heaven, both body and soul. Although the Assumption is one of the earliest feasts dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary (the belief in the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary began in the early years of the Church), it was officially declared a dogma of the Church (an article of faith) by Pope Pius XII in his Apostolic Constitution ‘Munificentissimus Deus’ on November 1, 1950, where he stated, “The Immaculate Mother of God, the ever-virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.”

The declaration of the belief in the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in heaven as an article of faith of the Church does not, in fact, deny the reality that the Virgin Mary died. Rather, it confirms that in accordance with God's divine plan for her, her mortal body experienced no decay; instead, it was taken into heaven together with her soul after her earthly life. Consequently, the Feast of the Assumption commemorates the fulfilment of the grace that God initiated in Mary from the very start of her life, as well as God’s triumph in her life: she was the one chosen by God to be the mother of the Lord and the mother of the church, the one who was filled with the Holy Spirit at both the Annunciation and the Pentecost, and also the one who was full of grace and preserved from the stain of original sin. Now, she lives in heaven in body and soul, sharing in the resurrection of Christ, her son.

In the Assumption of Mary into heaven, God has once again revealed to us His plan for humanity – the plan of taking humanity to Himself after the end of time. Through Mary, humanity has seen that the goal of its journey of faith – the journey towards eternal life in heaven – is both possible and achievable. The Feast of the Assumption illustrates that God has already rewarded one of His fruits – Mary – with the beatific vision; it demonstrates that God has accomplished in Mary that plan He has for all humanity. The goal of our spiritual journey here on earth is to attain beatific vision at the end of our lives, and this beatific reward has been shown to be possible in Mary’s Assumption into heaven. Thus, the Blessed Virgin Mary becomes the symbol of hope for our spiritual endeavours. In her, we find the assurance that all our efforts to live in accordance with God’s plan in order to earn eternal reward will not be in vain; rather, we will be granted the beatific vision after our death if we adhere to God’s design for us, just as Mary did. Hence, the Assumption tells us that all followers of Christ who imitate Mary’s fidelity and obedience to God’s word and plan will undoubtedly be lifted up to heaven. This feast also reassures us that if we cooperate with the grace bestowed upon us by God (for He has endowed each of us with varying degrees of grace) by living in accordance with His will, eternal life will be our reward.

Furthermore, the Feast of the Assumption serves as a reminder that the victory of death over the bodies of those who love God is merely temporal, occurring only at the moment of death. Subsequently, the power of God intervenes to rescue His beloved from the grasp of death and reward them with eternal life. Thus, the Feast of the Assumption is the feast of the triumph of life over death. St Paul alluded to this concept in his first letter to the Corinthians 15:54-57, where he stated that when our mortal body is transformed into immortality, which occurs at resurrection, death is vanquished, and death is consumed in victory. The Psalmist also mentioned this in Psalm 16:10, declaring, “I will not allow my faithful servant to see decay.” So, the lives of those who love God do not end at death; those who love God and live according to his Word cannot be defeated in eternity by death and all its powers made manifest in sickness, hatred, oppression, persecutions, social and economic hardships, fear, and disease (Rom. 8:35). No, rather, the power of God will raise his chosen people from death and all the other challenges it employs to threaten our lives. The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into heaven reinforces this assurance.

Peace be with you

Fr. Isaac Chinemerem Chima

 19^th Sunday, Year C: Homily by Fr Isaac Chima

Theme: Faith-Illumined Hope and Vigilance

Readings: Wis 18, 6-9; Heb 11, 1-2.8-19; Lk 12, 35-48

Dear brothers and sisters in the Lord, this 19^th Sunday invites us to remain awake and vigilant so that the day of the Lord – the day we will be taken from this world to reunite with our Creator – does not catch us unprepared. It also tells the type of vigilance that is expected of us, which is the manner of life anticipated from all those who await the return of their master.

One of the responsibilities of the national security agencies is to safeguard the nation from attackers and, in doing so, preserve lives and property. To fulfil this duty, they maintain vigilance around the clock every day. In various homes and offices, individuals install surveillance cameras, some keep dogs for security, and many others reinforce their residences with burglary-proof measures to prevent break-ins by thieves. All these actions are intended to protect physical lives from harm and material possessions from theft or damage.

In today's gospel, Jesus made reference to the same concept of vigilance; however, this time it is not aimed at safeguarding physical lives and possessions, but rather at protecting our spiritual life from eternal damnation. He stated, “if the householder had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would have been awake and would not have left his house to be broken into. You too must be ready because, the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” Thus, Jesus urges each of us to be ready for that moment when death will take our lives, and we will be made to stand before God's judgement throne. If individuals invest time and resources to secure their temporary physical life, we are expected to dedicate even greater time and effort to secure our eternal life.

Today's gospel challenges us to reflect on our preparedness for that inevitable moment that awaits all living beings – the final day of our existence on earth.

The first parable of today’s gospel tells us that the servant who remains vigilant and ready for his master's return will be rewarded abundantly. However, it is regrettable that many people act like the servant mentioned in the latter part of today's gospel, who began to live his life according to his own desires, believing that his master would not return on time. He falls into the category of those who wish to lead their lives as they please, rather than in accordance with the will of their creator. This includes those who assume they have many years ahead of them and therefore feel entitled to indulge in any lifestyle they choose, thinking that when they get old, they can return to the Church to rectify or renew their lives. Unfortunately, events did not unfold as that servant anticipated. His master arrived unexpectedly, and he faced severe consequences.

St. Francis of Assisi was once asked what he would wish for God to find him engaged in when death comes to take his life. He simply replied that he would like God to find him doing precisely what he was doing at the moment he was asked that question. This indicates that he was engaged in a good deed, for no one would desire to face death while involved in wrongdoing.

Now, let us reflect on this question: if the last hour of our lives were to arrive while we are here in the church, can you confidently assert that you would go to heaven? Dear friends, begin now to engage in the actions you would wish for God to find you performing when He comes for your life.

That final hour may come to some individuals while they are engaged in conflicts with others, gossiping, lying, plotting malevolent acts, stealing, or traveling to commit crimes, among other things. We have heard of numerous unforeseen events and disasters that have claimed many lives. For instance, fire outbreaks, road accidents, terrorist attacks, building collapses, and plane crashes. Have we considered how prepared those who perished in these situations were when death approached them? This question should get us worried and perhaps motivate us to take action regarding our own lives.

The gospel tells us that the apparent delay in the arrival of our master should not lead us to live in ways that contradict his will, nor should it cause us to believe that his arrival is far off.

In the first reading, despite their suffering, the Israelites in Egypt refrained from wrongdoing while waiting for God to come and liberate them. They steadfastly maintained their faith in God, who ultimately did not let them down. Dear friends, do not engage in evil actions due to hardships.

Abraham and Sarah, in the second reading, maintained their unwavering faith in God and did not resort to wrongdoing due to the delay in the fulfilment of His promises. Even when faced with extreme difficulties, they remained steadfast in their devotion to God. Many individuals who encounter similar hardships often use their circumstances as a rationale for choosing evil or straying from the path of righteousness. Do not lose your faith when challenges test your limits.

Abraham and Sarah have exemplified the importance of remaining faithful to God while we await the realization of His promises. They have also shown us to illuminate our vigilance for the day of the Lord’s return with a strong faith in God. Having faith in God entails engaging in actions that are pleasing to Him as we await His return. Like Abraham and Sarah, when our vigilance and hope are illumined by a strong faith in God, our lives will produce the fruits of good choices, good actions and holiness.

Peace be with you, and may you have a blessed Sunday.

Rev. Fr Isaac Chinemerem Chima

 

 

 19^TH SUNDAY, YEAR C: REFLECTION BY FR. JULIAN EKEH

THEME: WAKE UP! BE PREPARED!

(Luke 12:32-48)

Our parents will always tell us the importance of being vigilant and the danger of oversleeping. Some of our parents knew how to wake us up in those days when we refused to rise to join in the morning prayers. Some used the method of splashing cold water to do so. They woke us up to be spiritually ready for the new day.

A particular 'morning-cry' preacher used to wake people up when the sleep is very sweet very early in the morning with his microphone singing: 'teta n'ura, Jesus na-akpo gi... (wake up Christ is inviting you)'. Spiritual alertness is advocated by Christ in Today's Gospel Reading. In fact, it is risky to be in the sleeping mode when the enemy is awake or when duty calls demand watchfulness.

This is the time to wake up. We have to be on guard in wait for the coming of the Lord. We have to be prepared so as not to fall into temptation. We have to be awake in service. We should not give room for sleep to be known as our weak point. We've got to find out our areas of sleep and wake them. A particular senior in one secondary school, who lived as a dormitory captain in a junior hostel, was so tough in his giant stature that he almost became a terror in the school. He really instilled discipline, known by the school authorities, for his thoroughness and strictness. The students made plans for him. They realized how bad he sleeps and carried him with his bed to the school dustbin in the bush. He woke there with the rising bell. He became humbled by that and stopped operating on his power alone, which made him take things for granted. He learnt to set alarms at different times of the night to wake him and not leave him almost dead in sleep all through the night. He stopped eating heavily in the nights and avoided anything that would make him too weak in the night.

 

WHY THE SLEEP?

Sleep is a necessary rest we observe after the fatigue of our day work. The night is usually the time for sleep. But Jesus makes us see other dimensions to the night. Night is a time of watchfulness. It is a time usually seen as a hideout because of the darkness associated with it. Thieves make use of it to strike while sleepers sleep. It is a time when the serious-minded people go extra miles; when the serious student burns the midnight oil, when the serious lecturer prepare his lecture notes, when the serious politician reflects on how to take the state or country to a greater height, when the man of prayer storms heaven in prayers. Little wonder Jesus asks: Why do you sleep? Rise and pray (Lk 22:45-46). "Onye ulo ya na agba oku anaghi achu oke." Let us rise in faith. "Onye ndi iro gbara gburugburu na eche ndu ya nche mgbe nile." Let us be vigilant and strong. Jesus says if the householder had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would be awake and would not allow his house to be broken into. We have known that the dark nights are the times we are targeted. For this, Jesus invites us to tarry till his return.

 

WHAT THE WATCHING IS ALL ABOUT

Sleep is a state of unconsciousness. Jesus calls us to be conscious of his presence always. At night, one thinks that his deeds are not noticed, and he relaxes and hides under the dark to slumber in evil. He loses consciousness of whom he is and what his calling is about. He is made to believe that God is not awake. The Lord sees. The dark is not even dark to him. Sleep makes one forget. Jesus wants us to remember his words and instructions and never allow them to elude us at any time even when we think he is taking His time. Sleep gives room for dreaming and fantasizing. He says about the unfaithful servant: "If he says to himself,' my master is delayed in coming' and begins to beat the menservants and maidservants..." This is living unrealistic life, life that is not expected of you, being lose and living without divine awareness. Thus, watch and guide against being taken over by weakness of sleep.

 

HOW TO WATCH

Jesus tells us how to watch; well dressed. Let your loins be girded. To be vigilant, we must not put on a sleeping gown. We must be fortified. Dressed in goodness, holiness, and virtues. We must put on righteousness as garb. We must have our lamps lit. Since it is dark, we must put on the light and endeavour it doesn't go down. Winds are more at night. Is your torch still burning, or is it going down? You received the light at baptism. How well is it shining? Are your good deeds shining out?

Are you ready for the master's return? The whole instruction reminds us of the exodus experience. The Lord went in the night and delivered his people. But He called them for quick action. If you have been sleeping, wake up in haste. Move out of spiritual laziness and complacency. Guide against the breakers. Do not allow the enemy to break the door of your life. Keep it open only for the Lord to enter in. Be ready for the Lord to come at any time. May He find you awake when He comes. May you not be found in drunkenness and immorality, May you be strong in the face of the many enemies prowling. May your faith be strong.

May God bless His word in our hearts.

LET US PRAY

O Lord, Your word today encourages us. May we hear these words again and again: "Fear not, little flock for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom" May the enemies of our faith never find us asleep and may our unsleeping God defend us and give us the spirit of holy and active vigilance in the battle of life against the foe. May we be blessed and protected in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Happy Sunday to you (19th Sunday, Ordinary Time, Yr C)

Rev Fr Julian O Ekeh

 18^th Sunday, Year C: Homily by Fr Isaac Chima

Theme: How to Satisfy the Longings of the Human Heart

Readings: Sir 1:2; 2:21-23; Col 3:1-5. 9-11; Lk 12:13-21

Dear brothers and sisters in the Lord, on this eighteenth Sunday of the year, the Church addresses a subject that lies at the core of our hearts. She invites us to reflect over the means by which we seek to satisfy the deep longings and inner desires of our hearts. Do these means provide us with lasting satisfaction? Can they offer us a fulfilment that goes beyond the grave?

In his book ‘Being and Nothingness’, Jean-Paul Sartre elucidated that the being-for-itself is a being of consciousness. Due to this being’s awareness of its surroundings, it consistently recognizes its incompleteness, and in its quest for wholeness, it seeks to transcend what it is to become what it is not. Between what it is (its current state) and what it wants to be (its aspirations) lies a void that yearns to be filled. Sartre referred to this void as ‘Nothingness’: a lack, an emptiness. This being is the being of man. For Sartre, the essence of man is defined by the nothingness or emptiness within him that seeks fulfilment. Within man exists a void or lack in his heart that continually drives him to strive for what he is not, a nothingness that compels him to pursue higher aspirations and achieve greater accomplishments in life. Economists might refer to this ‘nothingness’ as the insatiability of man.

The readings for today prompt us to examine the various means we employ to address the void that resides within the human heart, that yearning or desire inherent in mankind.

The wise teacher in today's first reading shared the numerous methods he utilized to fill/satisfy the nothingness/emptiness of his heart. Let us explore some of these approaches.

First, he sought to find fulfilment through wisdom and the quest for knowledge (Sirach 1:16-18). However, he soon realized that with each piece of knowledge he gained, he felt an increasing need to learn even more. Ultimately, the pursuit of knowledge did not provide the satisfaction his heart craved. Furthermore, he discovered that the same death awaits both the learned and the foolish.

Subsequently, he turned to the pursuit of pleasure, hoping it would bring him the satisfaction he sought (Sirach 2:1-3). He indulged in food and drink to excess, yet the more he consumed, the greater his desire became for new experiences; this led him to indulge himself more and more in pleasure. Disappointingly, he found that the same death awaited both those who feasted abundantly and those who were in want, leaving him disillusioned. In summary, pleasure failed to satisfy the emptiness/longing within his heart.

Then, he dedicated himself to diligent labour as a way to fulfil the desires of his heart (Sirach 2:4-6). He constructed mansions and bridges; however, the more he built them, the more innovative ideas for enhancing his constructions flooded his mind, preventing him from enjoying the fruits of his labour. This endeavour brought him greater troubles and anxieties rather than fulfilment.

Finally, he then devoted himself to the accumulation of wealth as a means to satisfy his soul. He took many wives, owned slaves, and ruled over empires, yet all his riches brought him more stress and distraction than he had anticipated.

After experimenting with various material possessions, he concluded that they did not provide enduring satisfaction for the emptiness/longing within his heart. Consequently, he proclaimed all material possessions as vanity. The lesson is quite simple. While material possessions may offer temporary satisfaction, the lasting fulfilment that our hearts crave cannot be derived from transient items, namely, material goods. Although material possessions may provide a sense of security in this life, they cannot sustain us indefinitely; they cannot secure our life in eternity. In today’s gospel, Jesus emphasized this point. He stated, "a person’s true life does not depend on the things he possesses" (Lk 12:15). Material wealth cannot secure our hearts, because it does not accompany us beyond the grave; the satisfaction it offers is fleeting and ultimately vanishes like smoke. The deep yearning of our hearts transcends what material possessions can offer.

The author's experience in the first reading mirrors that of numerous individuals in our contemporary world. In an effort to fulfil the deep-seated desires of their hearts, some individuals have dedicated their entire lives to the quest for material riches; others believe that excessive consumption of wine will achieve this; some assume that true satisfaction is found in nightclubs and various social events; others think it comes from making new friends; some others still believe it is derived from gaining political influence, etc. However, we should know that ‘oriri na onunu nke uwa abughi ebe ndu di; ikpa aku na mma nke uwa abughi ebe ndu di. Ndu di n’aka Chukwu, ihe anya na-ahu na-eduhie uwa, uwa amaghi na Chukwu nke igwe bu ebe ndu di.

The gospel reading of today presented the example of a man who believed that acquiring material possessions would secure his life, protect his heart from worries, and provide him with enjoyment. However, dear friends, Jesus informed us that the man was mistaken in his belief, because the accumulation of material wealth does not safeguard a person's heart and life, nor does it offer the ultimate satisfaction that our hearts seek. "A person’s true life does not depend on the things he possesses," Jesus said (Lk 12:15). Let us look at what that man said, "Then I will say to myself, Lucky man, you have all the good things that you need for many years. Take life easy, eat, drink, and enjoy yourself." He was under the impression that his material wealth would keep him alive forever. He believed that material possessions would provide him with everlasting satisfaction. But God said to him, "You fool! This night you will have to give up your life." Subsequently, Jesus remarked, "This is how it will be for those who pile up riches for themselves but are not rich in God’s sight."

We can categorize that man as a member of the group known as ‘ndi aku na-esi obi ike’, meaning those who think their wealth, beauty, strength, or political and societal status can accomplish everything for them; those who fail to look beyond their riches; and those who do not consider anything beyond this world. Numerous individuals, including many Christians, have become so engrossed in material wealth that they seldom contemplate God and heaven. For them, heaven has become an outdated tale, believed only by the foolish. However, this notion is false.

Dear friends, Jesus urges us to be wealthy in the sight of God even as we seek material wealth; He desires that we keep God in mind as we relish our material possessions and esteemed statuses, for material riches and elevated positions cannot guarantee eternal life, nor will they completely fulfil the emptiness within our hearts. 'Gi hapu Chukwu kpaa aku, gi agbara aka laa muo' (if you forsake God amidst your pursuit for riches, you will depart to the realm of the dead empty-handed).

The second reading addresses this matter directly. In it, Paul enumerates the elements that those who have faith in Christ cannot rely on to fulfil the voids or desires of their hearts. For believers in Christ, their source of fulfilment should derive from heavenly matters rather than sinful pursuits/things. Consequently, they ought to concentrate their thoughts on higher things, rather than on earthly matters. The fulfilment of the heart's desires for Christians, as articulated by Paul, should not stem from worldly cravings, fornication, nightlife, impurity, shameful passions, malevolent desires, greed, idolatry, or deceit. Indeed, Saint Paul admonished all Christians to eradicate everything within them that pertains solely to earthly existence.

Dear friends, the fulfilment of a Christian is derived from leading a life centred on Christ, a life that reflects the presence of Christ. If you delve deeper into this second reading, Saint Paul highlights the qualities that should bring contentment to the emptiness often felt in the hearts of Christians—lifestyles that enrich us in God. He enumerates these qualities as compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, love, and peace. Through these virtues, Christians can truly live a life centred on Christ.

A life centred on Christ can also be embraced by those who seek material wealth. When they prioritize God at the heart of their enterprises, allowing divine values to shape their business ethics, they will experience inner fulfilment and lead a Christ-centred life.

The wealthy can also discover enduring satisfaction in their riches if they remember to embody compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, love, peace, generosity, and holiness amidst their wealth.

In conclusion, dear friends, in your riches, beauty, political or social standing, or even in your poverty, always strive to maintain a close relationship with God through prayer. Such intimacy will provide fulfilment to the longing of your heart.

Peace be with you.

Rev. Fr. Isaac Chinemerem Chima.

 18^TH SUNDAY, YEAR C: REFLECTION BY FR. JULIAN EKEH

THEME: IN HIS RICHES MAN LACKS WISDOM

(Luke 12:13-21)

The accumulation madness has really dealt us a grievous blow all round. The madness has eaten up the better part of our people on every side. It has eaten our time that we no longer think of any other thing except having and having and how to have all the more. Man no longer thinks of what happens after having. Does it begin and end with having? After having what next? Who is the source of all we wish to have? What are we to do with what we want to have? Man lacks wisdom indeed in his riches. Little wonder the Psalmist added: "he is like the beasts that are destroyed." Sad enough, man dares too to take this attachment to riches to be of greater value even in the very before of God. Thus, in the Gospel of today, the man was not concerned about Jesus and His teaching but on what he wanted. Between Jesus and mammon, he made his choice and even told Jesus about it.

DIVIDED BY RICHES

There remains a number of good values that wealth and riches can't afford. In the real sense of it, wealth should enhance development, peace, harmony, order, and understanding. But what do we see?  Division, court cases, fighting, lifetime enmity, and killings. The person that asked Jesus to bid his brother divide the inheritance with him shows the truism in what we are talking about.  Brothers can no longer live in peace because of inheritance and riches. People of the same country no longer act as one because of national cake that must be divided.  In fact, Jesus warned against covetousness. Because in most of the cases, what is being sought after is what really belongs to the other. Yes, to the other. The farmland of others for grazing cattle, the oil at another man's backyard, the business of others, the life of others, etc. It is indeed disheartening how wealth has divided a lot of communities. Check out all the communities with mineral resources and see how they slaughter each other for what should serve their common good. Look well and see how divided our country is because we rush after money bags during elections and rig in evil leaders into power. We are indeed dissected and divided by what should be the dividends of riches.

WHO AND WHAT ARE WE ACCUMULATING FOR

If only those who accumulate riches excessively and wickedly are to live to see how they are wasted, they should appreciate better the preacher of 'vanity upon vanity'. Is it possible for the governors to see how the investments they built for themselves with pensioners' money will be mismanaged? They will pray for the opportunity to correct their mistakes. If the former governors and contractors should come back to see how the cornered contracts are announcing their failures and monumental foolishness, they will seek an appointment to right their wrongs. If all we are struggling for is not the good of all and glory of God, then we have failed. Let's stop the greed. Let's stop being obsessed by possession. 

WHAT GOD HAS IN STORE FOR US AND WHAT WE HAVE IN STALL FOR OURSELVES

Man wants to get it all here. Acquisition, possession, wealth, and riches are the languages in his dictionary. How to destroy and build better houses, how to do away with banks here to bank abroad, how to invest here, and there are all that matters to man. He no longer considers anything to be better than these. He doesn't care again about who he is and who he is called to be. Man reduces himself and his enterprise rather to materials. Man is not just material but spiritual. And because man is storing for his material needs without considering his spiritual needs, God makes a demand of his soul. What then shall it profit a man to gain the whole world and suffer the loss of his soul? Let's have a rethink.

RESOLVE/ BENEDICTION

God created us to be wise and use the things He has blessed us with wisely to glorify Him. Let us not use them to cause death, thereby turning the blessings of God to a curse. Let our eyes be on things of heaven. Let us always have recourse to God so as not to attract the name 'fool!'

Let us store up treasures for ourselves in heaven where it shall never be destroyed. May we thank God for the abundant blessings He has lavished upon our world. May divine wisdom save us from the foolishness of greed, covetousness, and undue attachment to riches. May God rain down upon us the abundance of His heavenly blessings.

May God bless His word in our hearts.

LET US PRAY

Oh, merciful God, we have failed You by the foolish choices we make on a daily basis. We choose earthly riches, leaving the heavenly. Look down and see where Your people are. Because of lack of wisdom, our sense of values is being distorted, leading to anarchy, terrorism, backwardness, and divisions. Bring us together to think and act as one. Grant that our choices from today will be to the greater glory of Your Holy Name and the salvation of humanity from economic, spiritual, moral, and political crises. Hear us and bless us in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen

Happy Sunday to you. (18th Sunday. Ordinary Time, Yr C)

Rev Fr Julian O Ekeh