CHRISTMAS – SOLEMNITY OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “WE NOW KNOW HIM, RECEIVE HIM, AND SING HIS SONG”

INTRODUCTION:

After several centuries of the prophecy of Isaiah about the virgin birth of the Emmanuel, the first Christmas was celebrated when many people no longer know how, when, and where the Saviour King would be born. Many have waited and waited until they gave up their waiting. Many had forgotten the prophecy. But today, we replay the prophecy, we waited, and we now know how, when and where the Emmanuel would be born. We now know him, receive him, and sing his song at Christmas.

 

THE FIRST READING (IS. 52: 7 – 10)

We are happy again today to bring the good tidings of comfort and joy occasioned by the birth and reign of our God. We break forth into singing for we have seen the salvation of our God; for our redeemer is here with us. We are part of the ends of the earth that are fortunate to see and experience God’s salvation. From January to December, God’s salvation has preserved us total physical and spiritual annihilation. And we have cause to sing for joy and celebrate.

 

THE SECOND READING (HEB. 1: 1 – 6)

We now know and recognize God in his Son who is the image of the invisible God; who revealed to us the nature and glory of God. We now know and receive Jesus Christ the Son of God as the power that made and upholds the universe, and worship him like the three wise men.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (JN. 1: 1 – 18)

From the gospel reading we now know and receive Jesus as God himself, as our true light, and as our maker and never again join the wagon of those who knew him not and received him not. Today, we lay claim to the grace upon grace allotted to those who knew, received and believed him. Kudos to those having their First Holy Communion today; they are receiving the newborn Christ in a special way in the Eucharist today. And we pray for the grace of spiritual growth and heavenly favours upon them today.

 

CONCLUSION

The Christ we know and receive whose birth we commemorate today, shall save today, enlighten our homes today, restore us today, and fill each and every one of us with a joyful song as we sing- Joy to the World…!

Happy Christmas!

Fr. Justin

 4^TH SUNDAY OF ADVENT, YEAR C: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: FROM YOU SHALL COME FORTH THE KING

INTRODUCTION

The great solemnity of the nativity of our Lord Jesus Christ draws near. From Bethlehem shall come forth the king; from the Angel Gabriel shall come forth the holy annunciation; from Mary shall come forth the Emmanuel and the visitation; from Elizabeth shall come forth the joy and blessed salutation of the mother of the Lord. And today as well, we have to question what shall come forth from us this holy season.

 

THE FIRST READING (MICAH 5: 2 – 5)

In the first reading, we read about Bethlehem the little or smallest city of Judah, from where shall come forth the king/ruler of Israel, the ancient of days; the one who shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord and keep them secure. We therefore encourage those who would attempt to do one outreach or the other this season. No matter how little you are like Bethlehem, how little you have, something positive can really come forth from you for the benefit or good of the people around you. You can really make a difference in the life of your villagers or community.

 

THE SECOND READING (HEB. 10: 5 – 10)

In the second reading, we are meant to understand that at the coming of the Lord, part of what should come forth from us is doing the will of the Lord not just offering sacrifices and burnt offerings. In your quest to kill cow for God, do his will first this season; your activities must align with the will of God for you and for your neighbor. And the will of God is that we should be holy and blameless before him this season; that we should be sanctified like Mary and Joseph in a righteous living.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (LK. 1: 39 – 45)

From the gospel periscope, from Mary came forth the visitation that brought blessing and joy to the house of Zechariah and Elizabeth. We shall be visiting many people or homes this season; but let it be for sharing of joy and for good and not for war/trouble. Elizabeth reciprocated by letting gracious words about Mary to come forth from her mouth. Those that would visit you this season to show you love and support/help; do not castigate or criticize them; do not slander their efforts; do not make ill/evil of their kind gestures towards you.

 

CONCLUSION

Dear friends in Christ, like Bethlehem, Angel Gabriel, Mary and Elizabeth, something must come forth from you this holy season. Let it be something related to the love, mercy and kindness of God. Let it be something as helpful and comforting as the three months visitation of Mary to Elizabeth. Let that which shall come forth from you be full the kind words of Elizabeth to Mary her kinswoman. And let what comes forth from you be good news for your brethren like the good news of the angel Gabriel to Mary. And may we all have and experience an exchange of good, positive and joyful output/outcome from every corner of our family and neighbourhood!

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

 3^RD SUNDAY OF ADVENT, YEAR C: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “WHAT THEN SHALL WE DO?”

INTRODUCTION:

As we march rejoicing to the coming of the Christ at Christmas, we have to get our cards/acts right as many who came to John the Baptist today demanded for a clue. We all got to amend our ways no matter our work or status so that the coming of Christ would not bring us God’s condemnation, but God’s salvation.

 

THE FIRST READING (ZEPH. 3: 14 – 18)

In the first reading, we are called to start rejoicing already for our King is coming; to take away the judgments against us, to cast out our enemies, to take away our fears and weaknesses, to bring us victory and renewal in his love. This certainly calls for rejoicing. However, we must make sure that at the coming of our King, we do not make ourselves the enemies of ourselves, the enemies of our Christian brothers and sisters, or the enemies of God himself by our way of life.

 

THE SECOND READING (PHIL. 4: 4 – 7)

In the second reading again, St. Paul enjoined us to rejoice and quit every anxiety about anything. Many would increase their anxiety over so many things this period; trying to meet up one worldly target or the other and rob themselves of the joy of this season. Many would put themselves to overdrive this period trying to achieve what they were not able to achieve within eleven months in one month. Some would now become sad and forlorn, not because Christmas did not come, but because they were not able to meet their anxieties and vaulting ambitions.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (LK. 3: 10 – 18)

In the gospel reading, the multitudes which comprised of people of various social status (commons, soldiers, tax collectors, etc.) asked John the Baptist what they shall/must do to have a joyful Christmas. John the Baptist told many of them to simply share their goods (charity); collect no more than is due/appointed for them, rob no one by violence or by greed, and be content with your wages. The issue of contentment during the period of Christmas remains a matter of great concern for many. Many want to do more than themselves this period leading to more sorrows than joy.

 

CONCLUSION

What then shall we do to rejoice and attain joy at Christmas? Be contented, be charitable, be forgiving, and be clean in mind and actions. Little wonder all that came to John the Baptist this time accepted baptism or sanctification from their sinful past life. May we also purify ourselves this period, go for confessions, go for the sacraments and rightly await the coming of our Saviour King, Christ the Lord.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

https://chimaisaac.medium.com/3rd-sunday-of-advent-year-c-homily-by-fr-justin-adiele-df021bb9a183

 SOLEMNITY OF CHRIST THE KING, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “JESUS, THE MOST WANTED KING”

INTRODUCTION

Beneath a large portrait picture of a macho-looking Christ was written the following words: “wanted on charges of sedition, criminal anarchy, vagrancy, and conspiring to overthrow the established government. Dresses poorly, uses carpentry as a cover, has visionary ideas. Associates with common working people, unemployed, and winos (the rejected). Has variety of aliases/titles: Prince of peace, Son of Man, Light of the World, etc. Full beard and scars on hands and feet, the results of injuries inflicted by angry mob led by respectable citizens and local authorities.”

Indeed, Jesus was so wanted and most wanted for almost every reason (good and bad) that sometimes he had to hide himself and move secretly to escape being noticed. Many wanted him because he was a threat to their established evil cult; he was so outspoken with the truth. Many others wanted him because he was the answer to their prayers. Some others wanted him so badly for his healing touch, for his gracious words, for the multiplication of their bread, to turn their water into wine, or to raise their dead. Some others wanted him to push him down the cliff because he was a threat to their position and authority. Some wanted him in order to follow him to the ends of the world. Some wanted Him in their city, home or business; some others wanted him out of their city, home or business. A few others wanted Him to make Him their king.

Till today Jesus is still the most wanted king or person in the whole world. Some local authorities still want Jesus, his reign, his teachings and influence pushed out of their government and business. Jesus and his disciples (real Christians) are still being declared wanted today for crimes of oppositions against established world orders or morals. They want to put him out for good.

The good news nevertheless, is that those (the crowds) who want Jesus for his miracles, for his favours, and for his restoration still far out numbers those who wanted him for bad. And they will fear the crowds that are for Jesus as in the Biblical times as we march for Jesus today.

Today as the scriptures reveal, we shall once again declare Jesus wanted; wanted in order to restore all things in Him. We declare him most wanted in order to acknowledge him our King and render His majesty the service, the praise and glory/honour due to Him. We want Him today, to repay him our love for his own love by which he shed his blood for us. We are not declaring him wanted today in order to arrest, arraign, flog, crucify and pierce him for unverifiable charges against humanity. We march and declare him wanted out of hiding today, to crown Him our physical and spiritual King.

Finally, after massively and publicly declaring Jesus our most wanted and most cherished King and Prince of Peace today, let us not go behind to betray him, sell him, or dishonor him with our uncharitable, unchristian and rebellious lives!

Happy Feast of Christ the King!

Fr. Justin

 33^rd SUNDAY, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “THE END IS NEAR”

INTRODUCTION:

James Dean, an American actor in one of his famous quotes said; “dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.” Coincidentally, his life was cut short in a car accident at the age of 24 (Feb. 8, 1931 – Sept. 30, 1955), leaving him a lasting symbol of rebellion, youthful defiance, and restless spirit. Today being the second to the last Sunday of the Church’s liturgical year, we should start acting and living as if the end is near. This will make us quit every rebellion, every moral rascality, every faith defiance, and every restlessness and worldly attachments.

 

THE FIRST READING (DAN. 12: 1 – 3)

The first reading talked about the end of time, when Arch Angel Michael shall arise, when troubles will stir up in the world like never before. Then, those whose names are written in the book of life; those who have turned many to righteousness, whether living or dead, would be deliver into everlasting life. Consequently, as we talk of a hypothetical end of time this period, let us pause to ponder through a hypothetical evaluation of our lives, to make sure our names are written in the book of life; the book of the righteous.

 

THE SECOND READING (HEB. 10: 11 – 14. 18)

For three Sundays running, the second reading has continued to direct our attention to the priesthood of our Lord Jesus Christ which for all ages continues to sanctify and perfect all those who are called by his name (the sanctified). He remains at the right hand of the Father, interceding for us. But then, we have to continue to draw closer to Christ our priest through his ministers, continue to present ourselves before him, and continue to strive to live holy and better lives for his prayers/intercessions to work wonders in our lives.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 13: 24 -32)

The gospel reading also presented us with the end of time as when the Son of Man would appear and send out his angels to gather his elect from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens. This means that there would be a choosing/selection to be carried out. Not all would be chosen or gathered; but will you be among the chosen; will I be among the chosen? Do you think you have done enough good/right to be among the Lord’s chosen? There is only one way to find out; and that is living daily by the Saviour’s Word or gospel.

 

CONCLUSION

The end which no one knows the appointed hour is hypothetically and always near. We should periodically run a check on ourselves, on the quality of our life as Christians. We must quit every form of procrastination to straighten up our lives, our records, and our relationships with God and with our fellow men, so that there would be no condemnation or accusation against us from any quarters of our lives.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

 32^ND SUNDAY, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “THE LITTLE CHARITIES THAT PLEASES GOD”

INTRODUCTION

The readings of today presented us with the little charities that meant/worth a great value before God. This consequently shows us how simple, cheap or little it could take to please God. We can actually make or win heaven by doing just little things, little charities, little kindness and favours towards one another especially the needy. Peter Obi in one of his NEDU WAZOBIA talk show narrated why he flies economy and not business class; and how he uses the saved money to share to market women. He also narrated how he visits one or two hospitals and schools as a monthly routine, to help improve on their facilities. The presenter remarked; ‘heaven is certain for you then!’ Peter Obi retorted; nothing is certain; he strives and works hard every day to do the right thing; you have to work for everything! There is no faster way to work for heaven than through doing little charities for humanity; and you do not have to be so rich like Peter Obi to do little charities.

THE FIRST READING (1 KG. 17: 10 – 16)

In the first reading, the widow of Zarephath was not as rich or established as Peter Obi, yet she has the heart to do a little charity to Elijah. Though she was on the brink of starvation; on the brink of emptiness; and on the threshold of a needy herself, she still had the mind to do one last charity, one last favour, and one last good for Elijah. From her little morsel of bread, she shared with Elijah and was saved by a morsel of bread or a morsel of charity. That’s exactly how little things or charity saves us before God.

THE SECOND READING (HEB. 9: 24 – 28)

The second reading continued to describe and demonstrate the priestly office and sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ for the sins/burdens/problems of the peoples. Every little attempt we make to sacrifice for others, to suffer for others, to bear the burden of others, to intercede for others, is a priestly/holy act before God, and therefore pleases Him as well like the sacrifice of Christ.

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 12: 38 – 44)

The gospel reading talked about the widow’s mite which was perhaps not noticed by the people, but was definitely noticed and praised by Jesus as greatest among others. Jesus taught his disciples that you don’t have to be supper rich before you can do little charity or make little sacrifices for others or for the common good. Charity done from your surplus is welcomed by God, but charity done from your poverty is adored and cherished by God the master of all charity great and small. Little wonder Peter Obi accepted that the charities he has done with his wealth is not a guarantee for heaven; he has to work hard every day to do the right thing, in order to make heaven.

CONCLUSION

Today, instead of considering what big thing you could do for God or for others, just try considering what little you can do, contribute, or give up for the wellbeing of others. It will surprise you how that little charity means so much before God. What may appear inconsequential before the eyes of men appears great in the eyes of God. Do not hold back on little charities when the opportunities call. Your widow’s mite might as well be your greatest mite, and your greatest/holiest act worthy of exaltation before God.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

31^st Sunday, Year B: Homily by Fr. Justin Adiele

THEME: “BE RULED BY THE LOVE OF GOD”

INTRODUCTION

In interpreting the Decalogue (Ten Commandments of God), the Old Testament Jewish Rabbis ended up listing 613 precepts of the law. They went further to classify them into 248 commands and 365 prohibitions. These were further classified into light and grave laws. It became a big debate among the Jews to determine which laws are light or grave; which ones have more binding force or less; which ones should rule us. Jesus in the gospel reading of today grappled with the same problem; which is the first or greatest of all the laws? His answer was very simple; love of God and neighbor! Every other law is centered on Love.

THE FIRST READING (DEUT. 6: 2 – 6)

In the first reading, Moses invited Israel and all of us today: “Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God is one Lord: and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might.” This love is not just professed with the mouth but with our actions which bulges down to fearing the Lord by keeping all his statutes and his commandments as we know them. Be careful to do them; that it may go well with you; Moses explained!

THE SECOND READING (HEB. 7: 23 – 28)

The second reading talked about the priestly role and office of Christ which he has done and continued permanently to do for our sake out of love. He is able at all times to save those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. The love of God and the love of Christ for us has made him to continue to play a permanent role in our sanctification not just by mere words; he is our constant and inter-generational victim, carrier and expiator of our weaknesses and sins. Let us make it easier for Jesus by repenting and reducing the amount and weight of our sins on Him.

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 12: 28 – 34)

In the gospel reading, when a Scribe asked Jesus the first (greatest) of all the commandments, Jesus cited the first reading of today: “you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.” Jesus also cited the second of all: “you shall love your neighbour as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.” If you can live up to these two commandments, you are not far from the kingdom of God, said Jesus. What then does true love of God and neighbor imply? True love of God/neighbor will prompt you to do tremendous things for God and neighbor. It will prompt you to perform virtuous actions and not wicked actions. It will prompt you to put your own convenience and pleasures behind to please God. True love will prompt you to give preference to whatever will promote God’s honor, name and glory.

 

CONCLUSION:

Love of God entails doing whatever is within our power to secure the honour and glory of God and good of men. Christ himself gave us a clue when he said; “If you love me, keep my commandments.” Hence, to love God is to live life free from sin and to keep his commandments. An artist who was painting Lincoln’s portrait in the White House, asked him about his religion and Lincoln replied: I have no religion, I never joined any Church. But any Church that inscribes over its altar as its sole qualification for membership, the words of the Saviour; “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and thy neighbor as thyself”, that church I will join with all my heart and all my soul. Our religion, our code/law, our goal is Love!

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

 30^TH SUNDAY, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “YOU NEED YOUR FATHER, YOUR PRIEST AND YOUR FAITH”

INTRODUCTION

Today we read about the blind faith of Bartimaeus which penetrated through his physical condition and limitations to attract the favour and healing from Jesus. This signals us that faith is not only the patrimony/fortune of the strong/whole, but also a potent weapon for the weak and those who are at their lowest level. We must pray that this faith may never elude us at any moment in our lives, and that this faith may continue to drive us above our physical conditions towards God our Father, our priest and the fulfiller/completion of our faith.

 

THE FIRST READING (JER. 31: 7 – 9)

Faith draws us to God our heavenly Father who is our only consolation and savior in our blind, lame, fallen or broken state. In this first reading, God assures Israel and us that when we are down, we are not yet finished; for we still have God who has pledged to continue to be our father; consoling, leading, straightening, watering and restoring our paths.

 

THE SECOND READING (HEB. 5: 1 – 6)

Faith draws and unites us with Christ our high priest who acts on our behalf in relation to God, to obtain sanctification, mercy and other beneficences from God. Without faith, we cannot always approach our appointed priests, who are anointed to cover the gap created by our ignorance, sin, waywardness and weaknesses. Without any prejudice to our personal efforts to reconcile with God, we must inevitably develop strong faith in our priests whose office it is to deal on our behalf before God. Aaron and Moses used their office as priests to save Israel a good number of times when they turned to them in the Old Testament.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 10: 46 – 52)

In the episode of the gospel, Jesus fulfilled his role as the Father of all; rich and poor, healthy and sick alike. Jesus fulfilled his role as the priest who can ask on our behalf before God for the favours/miracles we have not succeeded to get directly by ourselves. We must applaud the faith of the blind Bartimaeus as well; he did not allow his blind condition or the discouragement of the crowd to choke out his faith. His faith drew him to Jesus his consolation and fulfillment. His faith changed his story for good. No condition should make us lose our faith or forget our Father (God) and our priests who can speak for us before God!

 

CONCLUSION

Cardinal Faulhaber, an Archbishop of Munich, one day was visiting the home for blind soldiers. He walked through the home and cheered them up. He encouraged them and blessed them. As he came to one blind soldier, he heard him praying; “Lord, I beg you not to take away from me the light of my eyes, but if it is your will, at least leave me the light of my mind, but if it is your will that I be deprived of that, leave me at least the light of my faith.” The cardinal stopped to ask the blind soldier where he learnt this beautiful prayer. The man replied from childhood and had never forgotten it. Certainly the loss of one’s sight is a tragic affliction, but the loss of one’s faith is a greater affliction. In any condition you find yourself, always remember- you need your father, you need your priest, and you need your faith!

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

 29^th SUNDAY, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “TAKING UP THE POSITION OF SERVICE AMONG MEN”

INTRODUCTION:

Today is Mission Sunday, and the Church serves the world in different/various capacities; spiritually, socially, politically, morally, charitably and otherwise. There are therefore a million ways one can really be of service to the Church in her universal mission and service to humanity. And this service must come while we still live. A pig once lamented to the cow about his lack of popularity; how people speak of the gentleness and kindness of the cow and only speak about her (pig) with insult. She (pig) admitted that cows give milk and cream, but maintained that pigs give even more; bacon, ham and bristles. I don’t see why you cows are so highly esteemed. The cow thought for a while and gently replied the pig; “May be it’s because we cows are giving while we are living.” Serve and give while you are still alive!

 

THE FIRST READING (IS. 53: 10 – 11)

The first reading talked about the servant of God as one who took up bruises for others, who offered himself for others, who takes up the grief and travail of others, bearing their iniquities/sins upon himself. The missionary servant of God should be able to make some sacrifices for the people around him/her; should be able to take away some evil, pain, hardship, suffering and tears from others; should be able to bear the burden of others. Simply put, just share in the suffering of others to make it easier for them.

 

THE SECOND READING (HEB. 4: 14 – 16)

The second reading revealed Jesus as our high priest, who sympathizes with our weaknesses (not always judgmental); who has also invited us to draw near to his throne of mercy/grace where we find grace and help in time of need. Jesus knew that we need him and he made himself really and sacramentally available to us. We are also called today to make ourselves available and get involved in the Church’s universal mission of sympathizing and being of help to the weakness and needs of others. We can actually be the throne/source of help, strength and encouragement to others both in faith and physical wellbeing. People who draw near us should really get help, blessing and encouragement, and not rejection and disappointment.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 10: 35 – 45)

In the gospel reading, Jesus corrected an impression among James and John and the rest of his disciples. He re-educated them that the son of man came not to take a place of honor among men, but a place of service and to give his life as a ransom for many. In the God and in the Church, we do not vie for positions of honor but positions of service. Hence, whoever wants to be a follower of Jesus must of necessity become humble servants, missionaries and givers, for there lays our honour and greatness.

CONCLUSION

Brethren, it is service that will lead us to greatness. That is why Jesus advocated for a missionary and service/servant spirit for his disciples. Service to others is a virtue closest to charity/love which is the greatest and summary of all the divine laws. Jesus himself came to serve. He is the servant who offered to bear the sins, grief and bruise of the people in the first reading. He is the throne of help in the second reading. And He is the one who gave his life for us to live. You can also be same to the people and the world around you!

Happy Sunday

Fr. Justin

 28^th SUNDAY, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “HOW HARD AND EASY FOR THE RICH TO ENTER INTO HEAVEN”

INTRODUCTION

Horace Mann once said to his first graduating class at Antioch in the late 1850s, “Be ashamed to die until you have won some victory for humanity.” My dear friends in Christ, there are no greater ways to win victory for humanity more than through the gospel message; then through the wealth and riches of this world. Both tools can be used to bring/win physical and spiritual liberation/salvation for humanity. Jesus united the two today as means of inheriting eternal life. Sadly, not many possess the wisdom/art to utilize wealth/riches to win heaven for themselves.

 

THE FIRST READING (WIS. 7: 7 – 11)

In the first reading, we are meant to understand that one really needs the wisdom and understanding from above to live this life to a salvific end. And we must desire and seek this wisdom above everything else. Sceptres, thrones, gold, silver, health, beauty and wealth, all need the guidance of wisdom from God to lead man to a glorious eternity. And without this wisdom and direction from God every other thing no matter how precious they are, may not come out good for man. Without God’s wisdom, sceptres and thrones have been abused to the damnation of many kings and princes; gold and silver have been exchanged for human life; beauty, health, power and earthly riches have been used for devilish and oppressive ends, and to the mortgage of many human souls. Wisdom is profitable to direct the use every other treasure for man’s ultimate good.

 

THE SECOND READING (HEB. 4: 12 – 13)

In the second reading, the author extoled the Word of God as living and active; but then, is it really alive and active in the hearts of all men/women, or just some? Is the Word living and active in the rich and poor alike? This Word of God also stands as/for the wisdom of God that helps us to discern the thoughts and intentions of our hearts; to discern what we do with our sceptres, thrones, gold, silver, wealth/riches, etc., especially for the good of humanity.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 10: 17 – 30)

In the gospel reading, a wealthy young man came to Jesus to inquire what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus handed him the ten Words or Commandments of God as a guide. Thanks to the young man who initially showed determination to do more than the Ten Commandments, but failed at last. Thanks to him as well that today, we now know that eternal life requires more than just literarily keeping the Ten Commandments. You must win something for humanity (especially the poor and less privileged) with your riches, your powers, your position etc. We must learn how to serve God and humanity in true charity.

 

CONCLUSION:

Jesus said today; “How hard it will be for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” But in actual sense it could be rather easier for the rich/influential to make heaven, if only they would learn how to detach from their riches; and how to use their riches to help/build humanity rather than using their riches/influence to sponsor crimes, wars, terrorism, corruption, and to sponsor human, racial, political, religious or moral apartheid.

 

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

 27^TH SUNDAY, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “JOINED TO UNDERSTAND AND HELP EACH OTHER”

INTRODUCTION:

Today, the readings dwelt on the sacrament of matrimony which joins a man and a woman together as husband and wife; a union that should be fueled by love and characterized by understanding and mutual helpmate. Both spouses must continue to be useful, beneficial, relevant, and source of relief to each other. This sacrament or union is also being attributed to the union between Jesus and the Church; which is undying, enduring, inseparable and eternal.

 

THE FIRST READING (GEN. 2: 18 – 24)

The first reading proposed that it is not good that a man should be alone. The primordial background (reason) that led to the institution of marriage was to find a helper fit for man. Hence, God started creating other animals, but none was suitable as a helper fit for man. Then the woman was made to fill this gap; the gap of a helpmate. To perfectly live out the married life, couples must try to understand the word “HELPMATE”. The word “helpmate” connotes collaboration, companionship, partnership, and mutual support and assistance. Husband and wife must learn to work together as a team, or the marriage union will continue to shake and break. No party should enslave, abuse or over indulge the other. Little wonder the first reading concluded with these phrases that perfectly described how the marriage union should operate; “this at last is the bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh”; “the two become one flesh”. The simplest interpretation of these phrases is: treat your spouse as your own body, flesh, and bone. Treat her or him not even as a pet, but as you would treat yourself.

 

THE SECOND READING (HEB. 2: 9 – 11)

The second reading validated the claim that marriage is like the union between Jesus and the Church; he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified become one body and of one origin. To perfect our union with him, Jesus had to lower himself, lower than the angels up to our suffering human state; he was never ashamed to call us brethren, nor be like us. If you cannot lower yourself to your spouse level for better collaboration, then there is no need entering into marriage. A dictator, an egoist and a superiority/authority maniac will always make a mess of the marriage institution. (We all know how Jesus shared his authority and mission with his Apostles without any prejudice). Many marriages fail/crash today because some couples refuse to lower their egos/authority over their partner. Without prejudice to the head of the family, we must also cultivate and maintain the atmosphere of equality among couples.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 10: 2 – 16)

In the gospel reading, Jesus reiterates the indissolubility of marriage. This implies that couples should understand each other and learn how to make their marriage work out. Again the picture of little children pops up as a quality also required for marriage to endure. Having the child mentality, that is; the ability to lower our egos; the ability to relate freely and cheerfully; the inability to keep scores of wrongs; the inability to bear malice/evil, can really sustain the marriage union.

 

CONCLUSION

A couple returned from celebrating their fortieth wedding anniversary with their children and friends. In the night, the husband tried to play the chef and offered to make a late night snack for his wife. Both headed for the kitchen where the wife sat down to observe what her husband wanted to conjure. He collected ham, cheese, mustard and the last four slices of bread from the refrigerator. He carefully made two sandwiches and cut each in quarters, the way she liked them. He place one of the sandwiches on a plate and placed it in front of her. “How come you always give me the sandwich with the heel of the bread?” she said. “Forty years we have been married and you always give me the heel of the bread.” I know I have never complained before, but honey, I really hate the heel of the bread. Feeling a bit embarrassed, the husband retorted; “I always give you the heel of the bread because it’s my favorite piece.” She automatically changed from feeling offended to feeling honored. Your marriage needs communication, endurance, understanding, love, mutual service, and giving of your best to your spouse!

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

https://chimaisaac.medium.com/27th-sunday-year-b-homily-by-fr-justin-adiele-d5d4b696ae3a

 26^TH SUNDAY, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “ALLEVIATING THE BURDEN OF OTHERS”

INTRODUCTION

A soldier of Alexander the Great was driving a heavily laden mule to the royal tent. The soldier noticed that the burden was too great for the mule, and he took a bag from its back and carried it on his own shoulders. Alexander happened to see this act from his quarters, and was so pleased that he called the soldier over and said to him; “That bag which you have on your shoulders is filled with gold. Take it as a gift from me. It is yours; you deserved it.” If Alexander a mortal human being could appreciate the kindness shown to a beast/animal and rewarded the soldier so richly, what then will God the eternal king reward us for kindness shown to fellow men?

 

THE FIRST READING (NUM. 11: 25 – 29)

In the first reading, we saw that God was at the fore front in alleviating the burden and lamentations of his people in the wilderness, through the dispensation of his words, goods/food (manna and meat), and right judgments (justice) to his people. God also sensed and alleviated the burden of leadership and prophecy on his servant Moses by registering and empowering 70 Elders with the spirit of Moses to assist him. If God Himself also gets rewarded for each time he alleviates our burdens, sufferings and lamentations; if His glory increases whenever he hears our cry, no wonder He remains greater than the greatest, higher than the highest, and richer than the richest.

 

THE SECOND READING (JAM. 5: 1 – 6)

In the second reading, St. James warns us that there is no gain in accumulating so much silver and gold (wealth) when there are a lot of people burdened with loads of needs around us. You cannot be so rich through the wages, salaries, pensions, gratuities, royalties and the allocations of workers, others or the people. You cannot continue to live in luxuries and pleasures at the expense of the poor or the righteous. The burden of peoples’ suffering, hardship, cries, sorrows and poverty should not be traced to your door step on account of your greed, fraud, jealousy or selfishness.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 9: 38 – 43. 47 – 48)

In the gospel reading, Jesus left us another lesson on alleviating the burden and problem of others. He did not forbid nor stopped the man “with no name” casting out demons in the name of Jesus. He did not forbid the man from helping out in the work of salvation. He did not forbid/stop the man from helping out to stop the works of Satan in the lives of others. You can be that man without a name (without a portfolio, without a party) for your brothers, for your community, for your state. You can be that man/person, through whom your community/brother gets water, gets light, gets good roads, gets food/meat, gets medical support, and gets justice. You can actually and graciously assist the government to alleviate the sufferings and burdens of people around you like St. Vincent De Paul group does. And God assures us that we will never lose our reward for he is ever watching from his heavenly quarters.

 

CONCLUSION

God sees and rewards more than Alexander the Great in the introductory story of today. We are his soldiers, his elders and the man/woman inspired by his Spirit of love and kindness to ease the burden, suffering and lamentations of the people around us. Let us remove jealousy, unhealthy competition, greed and selfishness. We can actually make the difference in our world full of pain and misery. We can actually put a smile of relief in someone’s face. We can lift just one bag of burden from our brother’s or people’s shoulder; and this act worth’s a whole lot of reward before God.

 

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

 25^th SUNDAY, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “EMBRACING THE CHILDLIKE MENTALITY”

INTRODUCTION:

Today, Jesus continued to predict his Passion to his disciples and was never deterred nor perturbed like a child who is unaware of any lurking danger. He continued his journey and saving mission even through cities where he was once threatened. Like an innocent child, His mind was not warped with any worldly permutations and glories unlike his disciples. His mind was set on fulfilling his mission against all odds; His status, powers and authority would not stand in the way either. He must undergo the way of the Cross; he must be rejected, arrested, flogged, despised, humiliated, tortured, insulted and hanged on the Cross.

 

THE FIRST READING (WIS. 2: 12. 17 – 20)

In the first reading, we saw the kind of evil that goes on in the minds of those who have lost their childlike innocence/mentality; they set traps for the innocent/righteous; they deliberately sin against the law; they test the patience of the just with insults and torture; they plot the death of the innocent and the defeat of goodness. No one who has a childlike mentality can bear this amount of evil in their hearts and against another person.

 

THE SECOND READING (JAM. 3: 16 – 4: 3)

In the second reading, St. James pointed out the vices that make us loose our childlike mentality; and that is jealousy and selfishness which begets every other vile or evil practice against one another. But when we hold unto our childlike mentality which is pure, peaceable, gentle and sincere, we shall make a rich harvest of righteousness; free from deadly passions, fighting and killing for what we covet.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 9: 30 – 37)

In the gospel reading, while Jesus was teaching his disciples what he would suffer without putting up a single fight with all his powers, they were busy dragging who was the greatest among them. If they had continued in this direction, jealousy, envy, fighting and even killing for position will set in. Shocked at their lack of understanding, Jesus brought a little child to them and admonished them to embrace the childlike mentality. A child has no room for prideful competition. A child can leave the seat for others and sit on the floor. A child is not so self-conscious.  A child lacks the capacity/faculty to consider itself above another. A child could soil himself for Africa.

 

CONCLUSION

A Chinese master threw a banquet to which he had invited many people both low and high. Most of the important guests arrived in special carriages. It began to rain heavily and a large puddle of water collected right in front of the main entrance to the master’s house. An elegantly dressed old man also came in his carriage and stopped at the entrance in front of the pool of rain water. But while trying to get down, he slipped and fell into the mud water. His clothes were messed up and some other guests started making fun of him. He became ashamed, uncomfortable and decided to disappear from the banquet. A servant rushed to inform the master about what has happened, the master hurried to see the muddied guest and tried to persuade him to stay despite his soiled appearance; but the old man would not agree. The master intentionally fell into the mud water himself and was muddied from head to toe. Then he took his old guest by the hand and the two mud-men marched into the banquet hall and no one dared laughed nor said a word again. This was what Jesus did on the Cross. Like Jesus and this Chinese master, you can be a mud-man, a servant, and a child for others.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

 24^TH SUNDAY, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “ON THE SIDE OF THE CROSS, ON THE SIDE OF GOD”

INTRODUCTION:

In the movie, Mother Theresa, shows her looking over a house being prepared for the Nuns in San Francisco. A priest narrates, “I was gently informed that the springs could go, the mattresses could go, the carpeting could go…” A worker then was busy trying to explain the workings of the building’s hot water heater, and the Nun lightly tells him, “I don’t think we will be needing it. For us to be able to understand the poor, we must know what poverty is.” My dear people of God, for us to understand God, we must know what the Cross is; we must embrace the Cross or the bodily sufferings that come to us for the sake of others. If we remove every trace of the Cross, every trace of suffering, and every trace of poverty from our lives, then we are gradually moving away from the side of God.

 

THE FIRST READING (IS. 50: 5 – 9)

In the first reading, Isaiah as a prophet of God faced many oppositions and tribulations; all was never so rosy for him. He even declared; I gave my back to those who struck me, I did not rebel, I did not turn back, and I never lost hope in God either. Such was later the case of Jesus as well. Here, we can deduce that your cross could be anything you suffer or choose to suffer for the sake of God, for the sake of preaching the gospel, for the sake of saying the truth, for the sake of justice and right. And that cross should never make you turn back from doing the good you are doing. The torments, ill words, the criticisms you face should not make you stop following the path of God’s law. And you should never doubt the Lord’s presence, his help and vindication when the time comes.

 

THE SECOND READING (JAM. 2: 14 – 18)

In the second reading, St. James drew our attention to the output of our faith, which should manifest in good works; good works in the family, good works in the society, good works in politics, good works in leadership and good works in the Church. The volume of corruption and evil in our country Nigeria poses a very big question mark on the volume of Christian and Islamic faith in the country. The low volume of good works in the Nigerian polity doesn’t correspond with the high volume of Christianity and Islam in the land. So where did we get it all wrong?

 

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 8: 27 – 35)

In the gospel reading, Jesus denied himself and his divine powers, and insists that he would suffer many things, criticisms, rejection and even death on a Cross. But all these would not hinder him from doing his good works, doing all things well and carrying out his saving mission. He called us to deny ourselves certain rights and privileges like Mother Theresa and carry our Cross and follow him. Attempting to avoid or avert the Cross in our lives like Peter tried amounts to not being on the side of God but on the side of men and Satan.

 

CONCLUSION

What is your own cross? What can you deny yourself for the good of others and for the good of our Country Nigeria? What can you endure for the sake of love, peace and brotherhood? What can you deny yourself in order to touch other lives positively? Jesus denied himself of his powers and divinity to carry the Cross of humanity, the Cross of our sins, death and condemnation, that we may be saved. It is only when we understand and learn from Christ how to deny ourselves and carry our cross that we would do more good works for humanity and more corporal works of mercy for the salvation of our souls.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

 23^RD SUNDAY, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “LOOK AROUND, DO SOMETHING WELL”

INTRODUCTION

Today, we see God as one who goes around, looks around, and graciously looks upon all his creation, seeking for where or whom to recreate; where or whom to heal/restore; seeking for whom to encourage and whom to save or redeem by his love and power. We are also called upon today to also look around us and locate the things, the people and the situations that are not going/doing well, and compassionately strive to make them well and better to the praise and glory of God. You can always do something well around you!

 

THE FIRST READING (IS. 35: 4 – 7)

In the first reading, the Lord told Isaiah to locate the fearful of heart, the blind, the deaf, the dumb, and the dry lands, and give them assurance that the Lord will remember them, heal them, and reverse their situation/condition for good. Interestingly, before the saving grace of God appears, someone has to stand in like Isaiah to bring the words of encouragement and hope to those who are not physically or spiritually well. Like Isaiah, you and I can somehow be a source of encouragement, hope or consolation to the blind, the deaf, the dumb, the sick and the oppressed!

 

THE SECOND READING (JAMES 2: 1 – 5)

In the second reading, St. James called us to look around our assembly, we shall see those dressed in gold, and we shall also see those wrapped in poverty. But we must pay attention more to the poor even though we are called to be impartial to both the rich and the poor. As we ordinarily choose to deal well and honorably to the rich, so also we should seek to treat the poor well and honorably. We can do something well around us by avoiding any partiality. Impartiality is key to getting some situations right in our country.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 7: 31 – 37)

In the gospel reading, Jesus moved round Tyre and Sidon and through the region of the Decapolis doing things well; healing the sick, the deaf and dumb and so on. He was touching and changing lives for better, striking joyful testimonies wherever he goes. Some of us on the contrary, strike terror, sickness, hardship, fear and bad wherever they go. Can’t we emulate Jesus today to do something good wherever we go; to change unjust/unhealthy situations for better, and be the cause for joy and wellness of a bad situation or someone in need!

 

CONCLUSION

If we look all around us, we shall always see the sick, the dying, the sorrowful, the hungry, the unwholesome and ugly situations that needed to be done well. Pick out one person in need or one ugly situation to be made well. We must rise above every spirit of selfishness, partiality, segregation and indifference that hinders us from helping to do things well around us. We must yield to the promptings of love and mercy which makes us to see the good we can do for our brothers and sisters and do them. God desires mercy/love and not sacrifice. Driven by love and mercy, we can all do something and all things well for our children, for our country, for our parents, and for our future.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

22^ND SUNDAY, YEAR B: HOMILY BY FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: "BELIEVE AND PRACTICE THE WORD OF GOD"

INTRODUCTION:

A visitor in Poland was being shown around by a party official during the communist era. The visitor asked the official; “Are you Catholic?” and the official replied; “Believing, but not practicing.” As their tour progressed, the visitor also inquired of the official; “Are you a communist?” The official smiled and said; “Practicing, but not believing.” Funny enough, many Catholics and Christians are like this official; believing, but not practicing the Word of God, and practicing some human traditions while not believing in them for the salvation of their souls.

 

THE FIRST READING (DEUT. 4: 1 – 2. 6 – 8)

In the first reading, Moses taught the people of Israel the wisdom, the understanding, the greatness, the righteousness, the blessing and the beauty in the words, statutes and ordinances of God. They are wise, great, blessed and happy; those who keep them and do them; they are even admired and praised by other nations. It becomes really unfortunate and worst of ignorance when you do not believe and cherish what you have, what even other nations/people admire; the words and commands of God; the words that are more precious than gold and silver, and sweeter than honey. (cf. Ps. 19:10; Ps. 119:72)

 

THE SECOND READING (JAM. 1: 17 – 18. 21 – 22. 27)

In the second reading, St. Paul continued to extol the beauty of God’s Word which we hear every day. He identified the word of God as the word of truth which makes us first fruits of God’s creation; which is able to save our souls. But first, we must believe and make honest efforts to be doers of the Word and not only hearers of the Word. When we hear the word of God and do it, we are made a new creation unstained from the sins and wickedness of the world, and also made bona fide heirs to the perfect gifts from heaven above and heirs to the kingdom of God at last. But when we choose to ignore the Word of God, we lose/miss out from lots of heavenly gifts and blessings in our life.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (MK. 7: 1 – 8. 14 – 15. 21 – 23)

In the gospel reading, Jesus detested the Scribes and Pharisees for priding human words, customs, traditions and ordinances above the words and ordinances of God. Practicing God’s words and ordinances keeps us inwardly (heart and mind) clean. But practicing human laws and ordinances (not all human laws) only keeps us outwardly clean but rotten on the inside.

 

CONCLUSION

Today, we are called to really believe and practice the word of God we hear every day. The word that calls us to righteousness and holiness; the word that calls us to truth and justice; the word that calls us to love and sacrifice for the good of one another; the word that calls us away from every wrong doing against God and humanity; the word that brings us into the light and glory of God.

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

 21^st SUNDAY, YEAR B: FR. JUSTIN ADIELE

THEME: “CHOOSE YOU THIS DAY THE BREAD OF LIFE”

INTRODUCTION:

For the past four weeks, Jesus has been teaching and offering us the gift of the Eucharist, the bread of life and the sacrament of his own body and blood for the life of the world. Now is the time for us to make our decision or choice; to accept His offer or just walk away as many did during the time of Jesus. Peter and the other apostles made their choice known today, they accepted and stood by Jesus’ offer of the bread of life, believing and trusting in his words and promises. The logic is simple; choose Jesus and choose the Eucharist he offers; walk away from the Eucharist and walk away from Jesus! The choice is yours!

 

THE FIRST READING (JOSHUA 24: 1 – 2. 15 – 18)

In the first reading, Joshua called the assembly of the people of Israel to come open and clean with their own choices: “Choose this day whom you will serve.” Choose whom you will follow; choose whom you will accept his offers, his food and his drink. Joshua and the assembly of Israel openly chose God because they knew with Him comes deliverance from their bondage, protection and preservation on their journeys. When we choose to serve, follow and commune with God in the Eucharist, our deliverance from bondage and from mortal, moral, and spiritual dangers is also ensured.

 

THE SECOND READING (EPH. 5: 21 – 32)

In the second reading, St. Paul also presented us with another moment of choice and decision making between husband and wife. Husbands must make the tough choice of really loving their wives; and wives must make the hard choice of total submission to their husbands. These choices must be open, sincere, and practically never in doubt. Joshua had to clear his doubts about the choice of the people of Israel between God and idols. St. Paul also wanted the same clarity in the love and respect between every husband and wife. Couples’ mutual love and respect must never be in doubt or hard to tell before the people, just as the love of Christ for his Church was never in doubt.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (JN. 6: 60 – 69)

In the gospel reading, while many drew back and walked away from Jesus’ offer of the Eucharist, Jesus like Joshua also wanted his disciples to come out straight about their own choice/decision. He asked them; “will you also go away?” Will you also walk away from my Eucharistic offer? Will you also walk away from my Holy Communion? Peter stood up and cleared every doubt; “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life; and we have believed..,”

 

CONCLUSION:

Every Catholic has a daily choice and decision to make about the Holy Eucharist. Choose the Eucharist, and you choose Jesus. Choose the Eucharist, and you choose eternal life. Choose the Eucharist, and you choose true family (husband and wife) communion. Choose the Eucharist, and you choose to serve God. Your choice today must be very clear before God and man and never in doubt. Therefore, we must make our choices clear by preparing daily, weekly and monthly to participate and partake in the Eucharistic celebration and Holy Communion with all the faithful.

 

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin

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

THEME: “THE BREAD FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO STAY ALIVE”

INTRODUCTION:

In Piers Paul work; “Alive: The Story of the Andes Survivors”, he narrated a very touching real life story. On October 12, 1972, Uruguayan rugby players were on an airplane to Chile for a tournament, but their plane crashed on the snow-capped Andes Mountains. Out of the forty passengers, only a handful survived. Lost in the snowy Andes Mountains for two months, when all food supplies were exhausted, the weaker players who sensed that their death was near, begged their other companions to eat their flesh after they were dead. Surviving on the flesh of their friends, the few whom remained alive, tearfully narrated this story of how their friends wanted them to survive by consuming their flesh.

This is the fourth Sunday in a row that Jesus continued to teach about the value of the Eucharist; His own, Flesh and Blood, given for those who want to stay alive. Unlike the heroes of Andes who offered their flesh for the life of their friends at death, Jesus offered us his own flesh while He was still very much alive. Christ’s own Body and Blood gives life, saves life, and extends our life to eternal life. He has given us His own Flesh and Blood for our survival in a lasting and permanent way in the Holy Eucharist.

 

THE FIRST READING (PROV. 9: 1 – 6)

In the first reading, we can deduce that Jesus is that Wisdom of God calling and inviting us his friends to come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. He has set up for us the seven pillars of the sacraments which the Eucharist is the center table that holds the other sacraments in a balance. It is only one who truly loves you will invites you to a special dinner like the Eucharist the food of Angels.

 

THE SECOND READING (EPH. 5: 15 – 20)

In the second reading, St. Paul admonished us not to be unwise or foolish or get drunk with wine; that is not the essence of the Eucharist nor the will of God. The Eucharist is a holy meal, taking while giving thanks, singing psalms and spiritual songs to the Lord with all our hearts. This is why the Eucharist has also been described as a special prayer and thanksgiving to God. When we gather to offer it, everyone who is wise and knows God’s will, must join their voices and hearts in the Eucharistic songs and thanksgiving to God.

 

THE GOSPEL READING (JN. 6: 51 – 58)

All through the gospel reading, Jesus associated the bread that He will give with life; not just earthly life, but eternal life. Whoever eats the flesh of the son of man and drinks his blood has eternal life; says Jesus. Simply put, the Eucharist is for those who want stay eternally alive; that is, those who want to have life abundantly here and here after.

 

CONCLUSION

Brethren, Jesus continues to invite us to the table of the Eucharist where he has offered us his Flesh and Blood as a lifesaving and life giving bread. More than the flesh and blood of the dead teammates in our introductory story offered over a short period of time to save (keep alive) a handful of friends, and offered only as a last resort; Jesus rather offered his own Flesh and Blood as our first, present and continuous/long term lifesaving/life giving bread for many. Pope Pius X in his decree ‘Sacra Tridentina Synodus’ of 20th December, 1905, on frequent and daily reception of Holy Communion, exhorts us that; “Frequent communion is the shortest way to secure the salvation of every individual man as well as that of society.” Frequent communion should be open to all the faithful. The Eucharist is not just offered to keep alive a handful of friends over a short time, but offered to keep alive the whole company of believers in Christ Jesus all through their life time and into eternity.

 

Happy Sunday!

Fr. Justin