Nigeria, Take What Belongs to You and Go

Sunday, 1 October 2023. Read Isaiah 11:1-10, Ps. 72:1-2,7-8,12-13,17, Ephesians 2:13-18, Matthew 2:13-15,19-23

Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” (Matthew 2:13)

Last Sunday, Jesus told us a parable. The master continued to recruit workers into his vineyard even though it was the last hour of work, and he agreed to pay them a full day’s wage. Trouble started when those recruited first compared themselves with those who came later. They grumbled: “These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.” In response, the master said: “Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for a denarius? Take what belongs to you and go.” (Matthew 20:12-14)

As we celebrate our 63rd independence, the time has come for us to be honest. We compare our country to other developed countries, yet we are not ready to do the work needed to make our nation great. We are like people who plant corn and yet go to the farm and weep because there is no rice to harvest. We expect God, like the master, to “pity” us and increase our pay, forgetting that we reached an agreement with God through our collective actions and inactions.

We claim to be a “religious” nation, considering the abundance of churches, mosques, shrines and other prayer houses, but I dare say that we do not know God. We are not religious; we are superstitious. For instance, you would find in Nigeria a student who skips classes, fails to read or prepares for an exam but believes that with an anointed “miracle pen”, they would succeed in an examination.

We call on God for everything – even those that do not require prayer, yet we do not move an inch to obey the voice of God. The businessman who sells fake drugs capable of killing people is praying to God to bless his labour. The political office holder who siphons billions comes to church to shout, “Amen. I receive it”. The armed robber, bandit, kidnapper, etc., also calls on God to bless their business.

In today’s Nigeria, even a child of primary school age has mastered the game of corruption, dishonesty and deception. If we don’t watch it, the evils of the next generation will make the evils of the present time seem like “the good old times.” We must start telling ourselves: “I am the problem of Nigeria; if I don’t change, Nigeria cannot be better.”

I know that being the first day of the month, many expect today’s sermon to be filled with blessings and other prophetic declarations. I am sorry to disappoint you. It is time for us as a nation to repent. Let us now consider the various dimensions of the repentance required to make our nation great again, as contained in our readings today:

1. Take Action to Protect Your Children from Evil
In today’s Gospel passage, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and ordered him to take the baby Jesus and flee to Egypt. Jesus is God, yet he needed Joseph and Mary to take him away from danger as a baby. Nigerian parents, consider today’s sermon as the voice of the angel of God telling you to rise, take your children and flee from immorality, insincerity, indecency, drug abuse, and a host of other vices sending them to their early graves.

How do you do this? Firstly, be a light to them. Lead by example. Stop teaching your children how to tell lies, how to cheat in exams or prostitute themselves. Secondly, give them the necessary time and attention they require. You go to work early in the morning and return late at night, leaving your child at the mercy of help, domestic staff or others who may harm their spiritual and moral development.

Thirdly, make prayers and the reading of the Bible compulsory. Teach your children that prayer is not simply something you do when there is a problem but a lifestyle of constant listening to God. Fourthly, be concerned about their entertainment. How do you leave a child with a smartphone all day without checking what they are doing with it? Select the books they read, the music or movies they watch. Be a mentor to them.

To assume that by merely paying their school fees, everything will be fine is like saying Joseph and Mary would have stayed behind in Israel, hoping that when Herod’s soldiers come, Jesus would overcome them “in Jesus’ name.” Imagine Joseph waking up from the dream to rebuke it by saying: “It is not my portion. No devil can kill my child. No way.” Then he starts speaking in tongues. Take action. Joseph fled from danger not once but twice. Don’t leave the morality of your children to chance. Herod was searching to kill the child physically. Today, the devil is searching to take hold of the souls of our children.

2. Destroy Tribalism from the Roots
We do not need any soothsayer to tell us how tribalism has contributed to the present woes we face as a country. Many Christians are either perpetrators or victims of this evil. To love or hate a person based on where they come from is evil. To condemn any section of the country just because of the evils of some of its members is unchristian. In the last election, many were brutally reminded of their ethnic origin, not minding that some have lived their entire lives in a different location.

We celebrate our cultures, but culture should not make you hostile to a person. In our second reading today, St. Paul tells us: “Christ is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby bringing the hostility to an end.” (Ephesians 2:14-16). No culture is superior or inferior to another. We are different, yet each person has something to contribute.

3. Train Yourself for Leadership
Our first reading today contains Isaiah’s prophecy about Jesus Christ, the shoot of the stock of Jesse. However, every leader must possess some vital qualities within this prophesy. Remember that we are all leaders; we influence one another continuously daily. Whether we occupy any position or not, every one of us is contributing either positively or negatively to the development of our nation. The leadership qualities highlighted by Isaiah are:

a. Spirit of Wisdom and Insight. Leaders are readers who seek the right knowledge and apply it wherever necessary. We often joke that if you want to hide something from a Nigerian, write it in a book. How many books have you read? What kind of books do you read? Have you read the Nigerian constitution? Have you read the biographies of leaders who made great changes in their nation’s history?

b. Spirit of Counsel and Power. Leaders must seek advice from and consult widely. What kind of conversations do we hold with those in positions of authority? Nigerians (Africans generally) fear those in power or anyone with money. We fail to hold them accountable because we worship money. Once a few coins are tossed at us, we maintain sealed lips and quarrel with those seeking to speak truth to power.

c. Spirit of knowledge and the fear of God. A leader who does not fear God is a disaster waiting to happen. Many Christian leaders today have no fear of God. Some got into power by joining secret societies. Some have performed rituals and offered sacrifices to various idols. They have sold their souls to the devil, so they can never deliver on good governance.

d. Impartiality. Isaiah says that a leader does not judge by appearances. He gives no verdict on hearsay but judges the wretched with integrity and, with equity, gives a verdict for the poor of the land. Train yourself to be that leader who cannot be bought over by money but will deliver justice even to the poorest poor.

e. Integrity. Isaiah says: “Integrity is the loincloth round his waist, faithfulness the belt about his hips.” Integrity begins by being a truthful person. If telling lies is normal for you, then you are a bad leader; there is no difference between you and the one who presented a fake certificate from a university as evidence of having attended school. If you love Nigeria the way it is today and want things to worsen, continue telling lies. There is nothing like a small lie. All lies are the same. When we lie, we behave like the devil, the father of lies. (Cf. John 8:44)

Conclusion
Nigeria is under the patronage of our Mother Mary. Hence, as we celebrate our independence, we remember to seek the intercession of Mary, Queen and Patroness of Nigeria. Mary understands hardship. It wasn’t easy for her as the mother of Jesus. I believe she feels our plight as she felt for that couple who ran out of wine. Mary continues to beg Jesus to do something for us. It is now left for us to listen to what Mary said to the servants just before the miracle occurred. Mary said to them: “Do whatever he tells you.” (John 2:6)

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, be merciful to us as a nation and make us better citizens. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Our Lady, Queen and Patroness of Nigeria – Solemnity. Bible Study: Isaiah 11:1-10, Ps. 72:1-2,7-8,12-13,17, Ephesians 2:13-18, Matthew 2:13-15,19-23).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Fear Not; You are Under the Shepherd’s Hands.

Saturday, 30 September 2023. Read Zechariah 2:5-9,14-15, Jer. 31, Luke 9:43-45)_

“He who scattered Israel will gather him and will keep him as a shepherd keeps his flock.” (Jeremiah 31:10).

As this week ends, the words of the Prophet Zechariah are worth repeating. They are words of hope and encouragement spoken in times of fear and despair. Zechariah says: “Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion; for lo, I come and I will dwell in the midst of you, says the LORD. And many nations shall join themselves to the Lord that day, and shall be my people, and I will dwell in the midst of you.”

And to add to this, our Psalmist says: “The Lord will guard us as a shepherd guards his flock.” Amid life’s challenges, it is easy for us to be overcome by fear. The man of faith has fears, but they do not control him. He remains calm and consistent, knowing he is under the shepherd’s hands. Like Jesus, he can afford to sleep soundly in a boat while the disciples panic.

The man of faith will continue doing what is right regardless of threats from different sides. Like Daniel, he would not just pray but even open his windows to pray despite hearing the decree from the king stating that no one should pray in the land. (Daniel 6:6-10). Was Daniel scared? Sure, since he was human. Did his fear control him? No. He acted based on faith.

In our Gospel passage, Jesus speaks to His disciples of His imminent death, followed by betrayal, agony, rejection and shame. Jesus’ disciples could not understand because they were taken over by fear. It was only after the resurrection that they understood what Jesus was saying.

You feel paralysed with fear now because you find it hard to imagine a better tomorrow; you still cannot see any light at the end of your tunnel but know this: if Jesus rose from the dead, your trials will end one day.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, Lord Jesus, my shepherd, teach me to remain strong despite my fears. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saint Jerome, Priest, Doctor. Bible Study: Zechariah 2:5-9,14-15, Jer.31m Luke 9:43-45).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

You Shall See Greater Things

Friday, 29 September 2023. Read Daniel 7:9-10,13-14, Ps. 138:1-5, John 1:47-51

“How do you know me?” Jesus answered, ‘Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” (John 1:48)

The existence of angels is a mystery, a reality not easily comprehended by human reasoning. Angels form part of what St. Paul talked about when he said: “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9).

In the book of Jude 1:9, we read: “But when the archangel Michael, contending with the devil, disputed about the body of Moses, he did not presume to pronounce a reviling judgment upon him, but said: ‘The Lord rebuke you.’” Michael is mentioned in the book of Revelations as waging war against the devil. “Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon; the dragon and his angels fought, but they were defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world -- he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.” (Revelation 12:7-9).

In the book of Tobit, we encounter the Archangel Raphael as a travel companion, a healer, and a demon-destroyer. “And Raphael was sent to heal the two of them: to scale away the white films of Tobit’s eyes; to give Sarah the daughter of Raguel in marriage to Tobias the son of Tobit, and to bind Asmodeus the evil demon, because Tobias was entitled to possess her.” (Tobit 3:17)

Archangel Gabriel plays the role of the messenger of good news by bringing the message of the Annunciation to Mary in Luke 1:26-28 we read: “In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Hail, O favoured one, the Lord is with you!” He was also the angel who told Zechariah he would have a child in his old age. (Luke 1:19 and following).

The power and working of the Angels are a testimony to God’s greatness and the fact that nothing is impossible with him. In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus said to Nathanael, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” This statement shocked Nathanael; it revealed to him the power of God, and he was converted instantly. Angels also reveal to us the power of God at work among men. Just as Nathanael couldn’t understand how Jesus was able to see him under the fig tree, we cannot fully understand how the angels work, but we know that they are real.

Today’s first reading contains the vision of Daniel. In this vision, Daniel saw “the one of great age.” A thousand thousand waited on him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him. Daniel’s vision reminds me of the Transfiguration scene. When Peter saw how Jesus was transfigured, he wanted to build tents. No doubt, heaven is such a wonderful place to be. As we celebrate these Archangels today, remember that there is more to reality than what meets the eye.

Let us pray: Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God commits me here, ever this day, be at my side to light and guard, to rule and guide me. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, Archangels – Feast, Bible Study: Daniel 7:9-10,13-14, Ps. 138:1-5, John 1:47-51).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Show Concern for God’s House

Thursday, 28 September 2023. Read Haggai 1:1-8, Ps. 149:1-6,9, Luke 9:7-9

“Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your panelled houses, while this house lies in ruins?” (Haggai 1:4)

A few days ago, we heard Jesus saying to us: “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.” (Luke 8:21). If hearing and keeping God’s Word makes us members of His family, we must show concern for the condition of God’s house.

The church can be likened to a family house, a place we call home to find forgiveness, redemption, calm, and connect with family. As the Psalmist would sing: “I rejoiced when I heard them say: ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord!’ And now our feet are standing within your gates, O Jerusalem.” (Psalm 122:1-3).

David asked the prophet, Nathan: “How can I be dwelling in a house of cedar while the ark of God dwells in a tent?” (2nd Samuel 7:2). In truth, this is how we should feel whenever we see the house of God in a bad shape. We should never be indifferent to the condition of the house of God.

In today’s first reading, Haggai asks the Israelites: “Is it a time for you to dwell in your panelled houses while this house lies in ruins? Now, therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider how you have fared. You have sown much and harvested little; you eat, but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill; you clothe yourselves, but no one is warm, and he who earns wages earns wages to put them into a bag with holes.” (Haggai 1:4-6).

While we must be concerned about the church as a physical building, we must remember that these words of Haggai also apply to our bodies. This is because we are the temples of the Holy Spirit. St. Paul says: “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God? You are not your own; you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

Do not allow the temple of God to lie in ruins while you pursue other interests. Put God first in your thoughts, words and actions. Honour God in your body. In so doing, you let your light shine. Jesus tells us, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16).

Jesus let His light shine during His earthly life – He practised what He preached. In today’s Gospel passage, Luke tells us that the fame of Jesus spread across Israel. Herod heard about Jesus and concluded that Jesus was the resurrected version of John the Baptist. Herod desired to see Jesus because his conscience troubled him over the death of John. Do you desire to give God praise? It is not enough that you sing and dance in the church only to bring shame and disgrace to God through your sinful lifestyle. Treat God’s temple (your body) with utmost care as a light. Don’t be an average Christian; instead, be an excellent Christian. People will hear about you and give praise to God.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, teach me how to reverence the church and bless me as I build my inner temple for you. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Thursday of week 25 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Haggai 1:1-8, Ps. 149:1-6,9, Luke 9:7-9).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Two Dimensions of Priestly Ministry

Wednesday, 27 September 2023. Read Ezra 9:5-9, Tobit 13:2,4,6-8, Luke 9:1-6

“Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics.” (Luke 9:3)

Today's readings present two broad dimensions of priestly ministry: praying for the people and interacting with or rendering service to God’s people. Remember that apart from those ordained, every Christian (by the sacrament of baptism) is also a priest.

In our first reading today, Ezra prays for the people during the evening sacrifice. Ezra wore torn garments, which symbolised contrition. Remember how the king of Nineveh tore his garments and sat on ashes upon hearing the warning of Jonah that Nineveh would be destroyed? God saw this and “repented” from the evil He had planned to do.

The book of Hebrews says: “For every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins.” (Hebrews 5:1). Jesus began with prayer and ended with prayer. For every priest, prayer is both work (that must be done) and a source of spiritual energy.

In our Gospel passage, Jesus sends the twelve disciples into various towns and villages to interact with the people. This is the second dimension of priestly ministry, and it involves recognising the following: 1. You have power over demons. St. John tells us: “Little children, you are of God, and have overcome them; for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)

2. You have the power to cure diseases. St. James says: “Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.” (James 5:14-15)

3. You are a preacher of God’s Word. St. Paul says: “Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” (1 Corinthians 9:16). Jesus says: “preach as you go”, meaning, preach with your exemplary conduct and not just with your words.

4. You are a traveller, not a settler on earth. Jesus says: “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics.” (Luke 9:3). Falling in love with the things of the world, craving for comfort, luxury and amassing wealth are distractions. St. Peter says: “Tend the flock of God that is in your charge not under compulsion but willingly, not for sordid gain but eagerly.” (Cf. 1 Peter 5:2).

5. You are to be available to the people. Jesus says: “And whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart.” (Luke 9:4). Pope Francis would say, “Pastors must have the smell of their sheep.” While we may not live in the same house with our sheep, we must be available to them around the clock.

6. You would face rejection. In sending out his disciples, Jesus also prepared their minds for rejection. Do not assume that people would like you because you are a good person. The closer you are to God, the more enemies you will have. When you are rejected, don’t be dejected; shake off the dust from your feet and move on.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, bless my priesthood that it may continue to yield great fruits for your kingdom. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saint Vincent de Paul, Priest, Liturgical Colour: White. Bible Study: Ezra 9:5-9, Tobit 13:2,4,6-8, Luke 9:1-6).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

The Special Family of Jesus

Tuesday, 26 September 2023. Read Ezra 6:7-8,12,14-20, Ps. 122:1-5, Luke 8:19-21

“My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.” (Luke 8:21)

In yesterday’s Gospel passage, Jesus reminds us that we are the light of the world. As Christians, we ought to be beacons of good conduct, self-discipline and high moral standards. When Jesus took our flesh, He lived as light to the world, a light that has continued to shine today.

By addressing ourselves as Christians, we pledge to continue shining Christ's light, that is, to make Christ present in the world today. In this way, we immortalise Christ and become His family members.

In today’s Gospel passage, when Jesus was informed that his mother and brothers were standing outside wanting to see Him, He must have wondered: Is there anything more important than preaching God’s word?

This reminds us of what happened years before when Mary and Joseph found Jesus in the temple after some days of searching. Mary asked him: “Don’t you care that your father and I have been looking for you?” Jesus’ response was simple: “Am I not supposed to be in my Father’s house?”

In other words, for Jesus, the temple (not Joseph’s house) is His Father’s House. Jesus was just twelve years old when this happened. Even though Jesus went with Joseph and Mary and obeyed them, Jesus knew that His true family was not restricted to His biological ties.

Today, when He was told that His mother and brothers were waiting to see him, Jesus said: “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and put it into practice.” Jesus used this occasion to pass across some very important messages:

1. Anyone who hears God’s Word and puts it into practice is automatically a family member of Jesus. Regardless of your church, race, colour or nationality, you are family as long as you listen to and obey God’s voice.

2. Just as we cherish and respect our family members, God cherishes and respects those who hear and practice His Word. Jesus often expressed his disappointment with those who flocked around him merely for the sake of miracles and were not ready to repent or practice His teachings.

3. Since those who came to call Jesus were expecting Him to leave what He was doing to attend to his family, Jesus used the occasion to teach that this is exactly how God would leave whatever He was doing to attend to the needs of those who hear His Word and practice it.

4. It is not enough to hear the Word of God; we must also practice it. Many of us only remember God when we need His favours, but we toss His commandments aside daily. Instead of living as lights, we blend with the world's darkness. Instead of behaving as family members of Jesus, we act as strangers, like the nameless and faceless crowd that flocked around Jesus.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, help me to live up to your expectations as a brother and sister of Jesus. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Tuesday of week 25 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Ezra 6:7-8,12,14-20, Ps. 122:1-5, Luke 8:19-21).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

I am Light; I Cannot Hide

Monday, 25 September 2023. Read Ezra 1:1-6, Ps. 126, Luke 8:16-18

“No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, that those who enter may see the light. Nothing is hidden that shall not be made manifest, nor anything secret that shall not be known and come to the light.” (Luke 8:16-17)

In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus said: “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hidden. After lighting a lamp, no one puts it under the bushel basket but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.

In the same way, let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16).

The type of light in this analogy is the oil lamp. Any attempt to hide the lamp without first quenching it could be fatal. This means that as Christians if we are not making any impact in our society, it is because our light has been quenched.

Jesus says: “Nothing is hidden that shall not be made manifest.” Every secret has its expiry date. Whatever we have tried to hide will someday come to light.

When faced with a temptation, it will do us well to say this phrase repeatedly: “I am light; I cannot hide.” Indeed, as St. Paul says, the safest life is to “live in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” (Philippians 1:27).

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, help me remain conscious of my identity as a lamp. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Monday of week 25 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Ezra 1:1-6, Ps. 126, Luke 8:16-18).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Do Not Begrudge God’s Generosity

Sunday, 24 September 2023. Read Isaiah 55:6-9, Ps. 145:2-3,8-9,17-18, Philippians 1:20-24,27, Matthew 20:1-16

“Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?” (Matthew 20:15)

Last Sunday, Jesus told us a parable to stress the importance of forgiving those who hurt us without counting. We must keep forgiving others because God has forgiven us an even greater debt. God will never demand from us what He is unwilling to give. In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus gives another parable to teach us that just as God demands continuous forgiveness from us, God willingly forgives continuously. The Master kept going out at different intervals to recruit more labourers to work in the vineyard until the last hour. As long as persons were willing to work, the master would employ them.

On the other hand, while we tend to discriminate against those who hurt us in the past (even though we pretend to have forgiven them), Jesus teaches us that God is not like that. When God forgives, we do not become second-class citizens; His forgiveness is complete. Regardless of when the sinner repents, God does not consider them inferior to those who never sinned. God does not discriminate.

The parable in today’s Gospel passage resembles the parable of the Prodigal Son in so many ways, and it was addressed to the same group of people – those who felt they were better than others. The Jews, like the elder brother, thought they deserved more from God than the “sinners” (the Gentiles who were latecomers to the faith), but Jesus told this parable to emphasise what our first reading today says – God’s ways are not our ways; His thoughts are not our thoughts.

The fact that the Master agreed to pay a full day’s salary even to those who worked only one hour tells us of the generosity of God. On the Cross of Calvary, one of the thieves said to Jesus: “Remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus replied: “Today, you will be with me in paradise.” In one sentence, Jesus absolved him of his past sins and gave him a ticket to heaven. This man lived a bad life, and here, Jesus was essentially making him equal to all who have worked all their lives to enter heaven.

God’s generosity may be seen as “injustice”, but who would survive if God treated us according to our sins? Why do we point fingers at others, forgetting that our so-called goodness is only by God’s grace? Imagine you were the thief who got this express ticket to heaven, the prodigal son, or the worker hired very late; wouldn’t you be happy? How would you respond to those angry with God, saying you do not deserve such love?

God’s generosity gives us hope. It teaches us that it is never too late to repent. If you hear this message today, God says, “No matter what your past has been, you too can enjoy the bliss of heaven with all the Saints.” Nevertheless, you would have to agree to work in the vineyard. God’s generosity must never be taken for granted. Don’t deceive yourself into thinking there is still time. Today is all you have. Let us now consider in detail our lessons for today.

1. Time is Ticking Out.
Someone once said: “There are no poor or rich people. Everyone has only twenty-four hours a day, regardless of race, colour, creed or family background.” No matter how influential or powerful you are, you cannot add even a minute to your allotted twenty-four hours. This also means that you cannot extend your allotted time on earth. The Prophet Isaiah, in today’s first reading, passionately appeals to us: “Seek the Lord while He may be found.”

This means there will surely come a time when the Lord can no longer be found. There would come a time when God would no longer be near, and repentance would be impossible. Dear friends, now is the time to repent. Now is the time for you to stop your wickedness against others. Now is the time to stop fighting people and wishing evil against others. Isaiah says: “Forsake your thoughts.” Change your thoughts. Return to God while you still have the opportunity to do so.

2. Honour God with Your Body
The words of St. Paul in our Second Reading today are quite profound and worthy of meditation. “Christ will be honoured in my body whether by life or death. To live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Death is very frightening. The only way to defeat death is to make your life meaningful. St. Paul says: “For me, to live is Christ.” That is to say, live for Christ. Make Christ your topmost priority.

How do we live for Christ? This is where our Gospel passage today comes in. Jesus, speaking through the parable, tells us to work for him. Contribute to fostering God’s kingdom on earth. Plant the faith, spread the Good News, and influence good morals. The vineyard is so big that there can never be enough labourers. There is always going to be room for more because: “The harvest is rich, but the labourers are few.” (Matthew 9:37)

3. Collaboration, not Competition.
When we begin to serve in God’s vineyard, we must watch out for the temptation to become proud. Somehow, we start looking down on others because we feel we are better than them. Like Saul, who could no longer stand David (because the women were singing his praises after the defeat of Goliath), we become envious of those we once considered neophytes to the faith. Never look down on others – the fact that you are senior to them in the faith (or older than them in the ministry) does not make you better than them.

What made the workers who were hired first think they deserved more than those hired last? Did they not agree with the master to be paid a denarius each at the end of the day’s work? Why did they grumble at the Master after getting their agreed amount? They compared themselves to those hired later. Do you desire to have peace of mind? Stop comparing yourself with others.

To avoid comparing ourselves to others, we must constantly remind ourselves that we are collaborators and not competitors as far as God’s vineyard is concerned. God’s kingdom is a relay, not a sprint. You cannot run it all by yourself. Before you came, others were on it, and after you died, people would continue the task.

4. It is the Eleventh Hour, yet God is still Recruiting
Are you ashamed of your past? Do you feel you have gone too far from God? My dear, your present is more important than your past. You may have stood idle all day, even buried your talents and hung up your work tools, but God is saying to you today: “You too, go into my vineyard.” It is not too late to repent. The Psalmist sings: “The Lord is close to all who call on him.” What are you waiting for? Call Him today.

5. Remember the Idle; Give Them Work
Finally, this parable of Jesus reminds us of one ugly truth. There are a lot of people today who are very hardworking and who desire to work, but no one has hired them. Sometime in the past, a president of an African country described the youth of his country as “lazy.” To be unemployed is not the same thing as being lazy. The fact that one is sick does not mean they are dead.

With the current hardship in our country today, we who are well-to-do must create jobs for our teeming youth population (provide an enabling environment for them to exercise their creativity and energy). Already, we are sitting on a time bomb. Don’t be selfish. Please remove as many young people as you can from the streets.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, help me to make the best use of my time, to repent while I can, to serve with all I have and to bear fruits for your kingdom on earth. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (25th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Isaiah 55:6-9, Ps. 145:2-3,8-9,17-18, Philippians 1:20-24,27, Matthew 20:1-16).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Where Am I Right Now?

Saturday, 23rd September 2023. Read 1 Timothy 6:13-16, Ps. 100, Luke 8:4-15

“And some fell into good soil and grew, and yielded a hundredfold.” (Luke 8:8)

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus gives us a parable of a sower who went out to sow seeds on different kinds of soils. It didn’t seem as if the sower in the parable did any form of clearing, digging or tilling before he began to sow. He allowed the seeds to fall from his hands freely. This parable reveals the carefree attitude that God has towards us. He does not have favourites; He allows the seed of His Word to fall freely in different hearts.

Some people receive God’s words with so much enthusiasm that they become so emotional about the word of God, but the moment they step out of the church, they never practice what the Word of God says. It is like the birds come and steal the Word.

Some people find it difficult to understand or believe God’s words. Their hearts are made of stone. They have no roots; they are like seeds falling on a rock.

Again, some people listen to God’s words sincerely, intending to practice them, but find themselves at a crossroads given their deep-seated love for material prosperity. These are seeds that fall among thorns.

Finally, some hear God’s words and allow them to take deep roots. They apply them and set an example in their life, thereby winning converts to the Christian faith in different proportions (thirty, sixty or hundredfold).

We all experience various soils at different times in our lives. Sometimes, we are like the seeds on the road path. Sometimes, we hear God’s Word but respond with a stony heart. Sometimes, we let money (or other material pleasure) override our love for God.

Let us ask ourselves: “Where I am right now?” That is, which type of soil defines my current spirituality? Once we answer this question, we will know what to do. We all can produce great fruits for God’s kingdom. Think of Sts. Paul, Matthew, Peter, Mary Magdalene, etc. If they are saints today, you, too, can be a saint.

Today, we come towards the end of our reading of Paul’s first letter to Timothy. Paul gives praise and glory to Our Lord Jesus Christ. It is good to praise God with our lips and, more importantly, with our very lives. Live so that when people remember your name, they are moved to praise God.

This is how Saint Padre Pio lived. Everything about this great man sings the praises of God: the miracles he worked, the souls he touched and the hearts he won for God. When we reflect on Padre Pio, we realise that God is not merely a figment of imagination. God is real, and He is still with us today.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, use me to win souls for your glory. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saint Pius of Pietrelcina (Padre Pio). Bible Study: 1 Timothy 6:13-16, Ps. 100, Luke 8:4-15).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

The Love of Money and the Root of Evil

Friday, 22nd September 2023. Read 1 Timothy 6:2-12, Ps. 49:6-10,17-20, Luke 8:1-3

“There is great gain in godliness with contentment, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. (1 Timothy 6:6-7)

In today’s first reading, Paul speaks directly to Timothy, a young Bishop in the early church. Paul warns Timothy of the temptation of using his office as a money-making enterprise. As far back as that time, many charlatans were attracted to ministry to save souls and make money for themselves. For instance, there was Simon, the Magician, who wanted to offer money to Peter to buy the power of the Holy Spirit. (Cf. Acts 8:9-24)

According to St. Paul, those who consider ministry a money-making enterprise “fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and hurtful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all evils; through this craving, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced their hearts with many pangs. But as for you, man of God, shun all this.” (1 Timothy 6:9-11).

Jesus refused to bow to satan at the offer of all the kingdoms and riches of the world. (Cf. Luke 4:6-7). The truth is that satan continues to tempt God’s Ministers today. St Peter tells us: “Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion, your adversary, the devil, prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in your faith… And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you.” (1 Peter 5:8-10)

In our Gospel passage today, Luke mentions that apart from the twelve apostles who were always with Jesus, some women “provided for them out of their means.” After rejecting Satan’s offer of wealth and all earthly kingdoms, Jesus had to depend on the charity of these women to provide for his daily bread.

We pray that God may provide men and women who will provide for His ministers so that they would resist the temptation of bowing to the devil for sustenance. However, no charity from well-meaning parishioners and friends is enough for a person who loves money. Love God, not money.

St. John summarises our reflection by saying: “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life is not of the Father but of the world. And the world passes away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” (1 John 2:15-17)

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, may I never be ruled by money, but continue to serve your people in sincerity and truth. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Friday of week 24 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 1 Timothy 6:2-12, Ps. 49:6-10,17-20, Luke 8:1-3).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

I Did Not Come to Call the Righteous but Sinners

Thursday, 21st September 2023. Read Ephesians 4:1-7,11-13, Ps. 19:2-5, Matthew 9:9-13

“As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax office, and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he rose and followed him.” (Matthew 9:9)

The call of Matthew, the tax collector, is a classic example that no one is useless before God. Many looked at Matthew and could only see in him a sinner because, in collecting taxes, the tax master always kept his share. However, God looked at Matthew and saw a man who would become a great apostle and the very man to write one of the Gospels that would be used for thousands of years to come to preach and talk about Jesus.

Man’s opinion about you may be damaging, but God’s opinion matters. The name people call you is an identity; it does not define your essence. The fact that people are laughing at you or insulting you does not make you a loser. Let God have the last word. God relates with us based on our potential and not our past. We should, therefore, not allow the past to prevent us from responding to God’s call from within.

We all have been called to various apostolates and equipped with various gifts and talents, which calls for collaboration rather than competition. St. Paul says in today’s First Reading, the various gifts we have been given are to be used for the collective growth of the body of Christ in UNITY. “And his gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors, and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain the unity of the faith.”

Since we have different gifts and callings, we cannot all do the same work, but wherever we find ourselves, we must be “eager to MAINTAIN THE UNITY of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Because “there is one body and one Spirit … one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all.” (Ephesians 4:3-6).

Furthermore, the call of Matthew challenges us never to become puffed up by pride concerning our state of life. We could become so self-righteous (like the scribes and Pharisees) that we can no longer recognise God. No wonder the saying is true that pride goes before a catastrophic fall. With Matthew in mind, Jesus once said: “Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.” (Matthew 21:31)

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, as you called Matthew, may I be an instrument in your hands. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saint Matthew, Apostle, Evangelist – Feast. Bible Study: Ephesians 4:1-7,11-13, Ps. 19:2-5, Matthew 9:9-13).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Dealing with Criticism

Wednesday, 20th September 2023. Read 1 Timothy 3:14-16, Ps. 111:1-6, Luke 7:31-35

“We piped to you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep.” (Luke 7:32)

No matter how good you are, you will always have enemies; there will always be people to criticise you, insult you and denigrate your name. One musician said: “If no one is talking about you (negatively), then you don’t exist.”

Jesus says in today’s Gospel passage: “To what then shall I compare the men of this generation, and what are they like? … For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine; and you say, ‘He has a demon.’ The Son of man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Behold, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ (Luke 7:31-34).

Are you worried about what people are saying about you? Begin by assuming that what they are saying is true. Examine your conscience and repent from any vice or evil you are accused of. Take steps to become a better person. Take it as an opportunity to notice the log in your eye. We can never know some truths about ourselves unless others tell us.

Don’t take every criticism as an insult. If hearing negative comments about you pains you that much, then such comments are true. In 1888, Alfred Nobel, the inventor of the dynamite, woke up to read his obituary announcement in the newspaper. His brother died, and the reporter made a mistake. Today, the world remembers him as the founder of the Nobel Peace Prize.

On the other hand, if you are innocent of what is being said about you, it will not bother you. In this case, surrender everything to God in prayer and relax your mind. When Potiphar’s wife accused Joseph of rape, he had no one to defend him. Years later, Joseph understood why he needed to suffer such an experience.

Try as much as you can not to develop hateful feelings for those who speak badly about you. Once you hate, you have become the same as your enemy, surrendered your peace, and become a living dead. Strive to please God. Be a good person; forget about trying to please human beings (avoid hypocrisy). Just as God fought for Joseph and many others like him, God will fight for you. Those who try to kill you by giving you a bad name will start speaking in your favour.

Jesus’ critics called him a glutton and a friend of tax collectors. In response, Jesus said: “All her children justify Wisdom.” Actions speak louder than words. A footballer once wrote on his Twitter handle: “Those who know do not criticise, and those who criticise do not know.” Do not be too quick to criticise others or to believe the negative tales you hear.

And if you hear such about someone, reach out to them. Be a mentor and a guide to them as St. Paul was to Timothy. (Cf. 1 Timothy 3:14-15). It is better to help others become their best than to go about destroying their reputation. Today, we remember the martyrs Andrew Kim Taegon, Paul Chong Hasang and their companions. As we remember their heroic witnessing of Christ, let us remember that each time we bear false tales about others, we are not better than those who killed the martyrs.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, help me strive to please you and not the people around me. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saints Andrew Kim Taegon, Priest, & Paul Chong Hasang, & Comp., Bible Study: 1 Timothy 3:14-16, Ps. 111:1-6, Luke 7:31-35).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Even the Dead Obey His Voice

Tuesday, 19th September 2023. Read 1 Timothy 3:1-13, Ps. 101:1-3,5,6, Luke 7:11-17

“Young man, I say to you, arise.” (Luke 7:14)

In yesterday’s reflection, Jesus praised the Centurion’s faith because the centurion acknowledged that Jesus is the true commander in chief of the universe. In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus again proves his power and authority over the living and the dead by raising a dead man to life.

Jesus did not address him as a “dead man”; rather, Jesus said, “young man.” This is a pointer to the fact that another kind of life exists even after we stop breathing. As Luke narrates: “And the dead man sat up and began to speak. And they gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all, and they glorified God.”

Just as in the case of Lazarus, Jesus spoke, and the dead obeyed. What does this teach us? There is no problem that is too big for God to handle. If the dead can hear and obey the voice of God, why should I give up?

What began as a sad story ended up with songs of praise to God. They glorified God's saying. ‘A great prophet has arisen among us!’ and ‘God has visited his people!’ This very phrase was part of Zechariah’s song of thanksgiving when his power of speech was restored after the birth and naming of John the Baptist.

God has truly visited his people. This is the meaning of the name “Emmanuel.” God is with us. There is no problem or difficulty worth taking your life. Present the matter to God in prayer and be sure that Jesus, who raised the dead, will make a way where there seems to be no way.

In our first reading today, St. Paul outlines the qualities expected of one who “aspires to the office of bishop.” These qualities are demanded of every Christian. We do not need to aspire to any office to imbibe these virtues: temperate, sensible, dignified, hospitable, an apt teacher, not drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money, respectful, managing one’s children properly, not proud, having a good name and serious-minded. However, if any of such qualities are lacking in a person, he cannot be a leader.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, deepen my faith in you and make me a shining example in virtue to my brothers and sisters. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Tuesday of week 24 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 1 Timothy 3:1-13, Ps. 101:1-3,5,6, Luke 7:11-17).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Do You Recognize Jesus as Commander-in-Chief?

Monday, 18th September 2023. Read 1 Timothy 2:1-8, Ps. 28:2,7-9, Luke 7:1-10

“Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed” (Luke 7:6-7)

The centurion would not let Jesus come to his house because he considered his house unworthy of God, yet He believed that the whole world was under the authority of God. Do I have such faith and disposition whenever I come forward to receive Holy Communion?

While others were still trying to understand who Jesus was, this Centurion, a foreigner to the faith, had already figured Him out. No wonder Jesus would say: “Prophets are not without honour, except in their hometown, and among their kin, and in their own house” (Mark 6:4).

The Centurion wanted Jesus to utter a word. He knew that distance was not a barrier. Indeed, the centurion knew that Jesus was the commander in charge of the universe. Do I recognise this fact also? If so, why am I always afraid of demons and evil spirits? Why is my fear of the devil more than my fear of God?

St. Paul ends our first reading today by urging us to be prayerful: to pray with faith like the Centurion, knowing that God is truly in command and, finally, to pray without anger or quarrelling.

Could this mean anger and quarrelling have a way of affecting our prayer? Anger creates bitterness and hate in our hearts, qualities that are not found in God. If we must relate with God, it is only proper to approach God with a mind like His, free from bitterness.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, into your hands, only say your word, and I shall be healed. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Monday of week 24 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 1 Timothy 2:1-8, Ps. 28:2,7-9, Luke 7:1-10).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Who Suffers More When I Don’t Forgive?

Sunday, 17th September 2023. Read Ecclesiasticus 27:33-28:9, Ps. 103:1-4,9-12, Romans 14:7-9, Matthew 18:21-35

“Does a man harbour anger against another, and yet seek for healing from the Lord?” (Sirach 28:3)

Last Sunday, we heard Jesus outlining the steps we must take in reconciling with someone who sins against us. Rather than wait for the one who has hurt us to apologise, Jesus wants us to make the first move – to seek reconciliation even before they admit their fault. Honestly, this is hard.

In today’s Gospel passage, Peter asked Jesus: “How often shall someone sin against me and I forgive? As many as seven times?” As if reconciling with those who hurt us is not difficult enough, Jesus raises the bar by responding: “Not seven times, but I tell you seventy-seven times.” (Matthew 18:22).

Why should I be so generous with my forgiveness? Why should I keep giving others the room to hurt me? Where does justice come into the picture? If I keep forgiving, will they not take me for a fool? In response to these questions, Jesus gave the parable in today’s Gospel passage. This brings us to our lessons for today:

1. Harbouring Anger Leads to Sin
As our first reading says, “Anger and wrath, these are also abominations, and the sinful man will possess them.” There is a difference between becoming angry (a natural human reaction) and harbouring anger. St. Paul says: “Be angry but do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not make room for the devil.” (Ephesians 4:26-27). Anger makes room for the devil in your heart.

When you are angry for too long, the devil seizes your anger as an opportunity to whisper evil suggestions to you. You find yourself thinking of how to inflict pain on others or wishing something bad happened to them. It is witchcraft to celebrate the downfall of others just because they hurt you in the past. Anger makes us witches. What do you expect when you go on an excursion with the devil? When angry for too long, you cannot resist temptations to sin. You know what you are about to do is evil, but you justify it based on your anger.

2. Failure to Forgive Blocks Your Prayers from Reaching God
Our first reading says: “Forgive your neighbour the wrong he had done, then your sins will be pardoned when you pray.” Jesus teaches us: “If you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:15). In the parable of the Prodigal Son, the elder brother returns from work. He hears music and dancing but refuses to go in.

Ronald Rolheiser comments: “What is keeping him outside since he is doing everything correctly after all? Bitterness and Anger. A bitter, unforgiving heart is just as much a blockage to entering God’s house as is any moral transgression. We can be scrupulously faithful and still find ourselves standing outside God’s house and the circle of community and celebration because of a bitter heart.” Judge yourself, “Who suffers more when I don’t forgive?”

3. Failure to Forgive Damages our Health
St. Alphonsus de Ligouri says, “The disturbance of mind to which we give way on account of the maltreatment we receive from others is more hurtful to us than the injuries offered to us … He who indulges in anger is a cause of pain to himself.” Many people today find it difficult to sleep at night just because they have yet to let go of the wounds they nurse in their minds.

Some find it difficult to enjoy their meals or even laugh just because they keep replaying the hurtful words others said to them. Many have landed in the hospital for illnesses triggered by the failure to forgive. Our first reading today asks: “Does a man harbour anger against another and yet seek healing from the Lord?” In other words, if you do not forgive, you do not deserve good health.

Forgiveness is therapeutic. If you know anyone sick, visit them and ask them to forgive anyone who has hurt them. Forgiveness has been proven to be more powerful than medicine in many cases. I refuse to forgive; I am like a person holding burning coals with my bare hands, intending to throw them at those who have hurt me. Once again, I ask, “Who suffers more when I do not forgive?”

4. Failure to Forgive Denies Us of God’s Mercy
When the master was told how the servant refused to forgive his fellow servant, he no longer listened to his pleas. He does not deserve mercy if he could imprison his fellow servant for a lesser debt. Jesus taught us: “In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.” (Matthew 7:12)

Are you angry with someone? Do you feel like ripping them apart? You feel this way because of your self-righteousness. You consider yourself better than them. You may have done worse things to others without even knowing it. You may have caused greater pain to God. As much as you crave justice, let the pain you feel remind you of the pain your sins cause to God. We are all debtors; we have all sinned against God, and anyone who says he hasn’t is a liar. (Cf. 1 John 1:8).

Conclusion
Forgiveness is hard but better than holding on to past grudges and pain. If it weren’t a better option, Jesus would not have recommended it. I suffer more when I refuse to forgive. In today’s second reading, St. Paul says, “None of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself.” Remember: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, naked I shall return.” (Job 1:21). Make your life a blessing to others, forgive and be kind even to those who hurt you. This world is not our own; we are just passing through it.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, into your hands, I surrender my pains. Free my heart to love others just as you have loved and forgiven me. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (24th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Ecclesiasticus 27:33-28:9, Ps. 103:1-4,9-12, Romans 14:7-9, Matthew 18:21-35).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

What Treasures Do You Have in Your Heart?

Saturday, 16th September 2023. Read 1 Timothy 1:15-17, Ps. 113:1-7, Luke 6:43-49

“The good man out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil man out of his evil treasure produces evil; for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45)

Do you struggle to overcome habitual sins? Do you feel ashamed of returning to the sacrament of confession for the same sins? Have you tried your best, and it appears “your best” isn’t working? Consider this: Is it possible to pluck oranges from mango trees? If you want oranges, why plant mangos? This is what Jesus teaches us in today’s Gospel passage.

Our actions, like fruits, are the consequences of the tree that grows in us (our thoughts and desires). Do you want your life to produce good fruits? Start by sincerely examining your conscience. To pull out a tree, you must acknowledge its presence. Sometimes, we judge others, yet when faced with the same temptations, we do worse than those we condemn.

St. Paul always examined his conscience. This is why he wrote: “I know that nothing good dwells within me, that is, in my flesh. I can will what is right, but I cannot do it. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I do… For I delight in the law of God, in my inmost self, but I see another law at war with the law of my mind in my members...” (Romans 7:18-23). In today’s first reading, St. Paul declared himself the worst of sinners.

The second step is to cut down the bad trees. This step is painful but necessary. We cannot wish our bad habits away. We cannot even pray them away. We must discipline ourselves by learning new habits. Learning a new habit is hard – doing something you don’t feel like doing until it becomes part of you.

The third step is to plant new trees, that is, by planting seeds of good thoughts. Thoughts are powerful; they keep you going when your flesh craves its old habits. Jesus said that we become corrupt from the heart (our thoughts). It is not what they eat that defile a person but the thoughts in their heart. (Cf. Matthew 15:17-20).

What kind of thoughts should occupy your mind? St. Paul says: “Whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8).

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, fill my heart with divine treasures. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saints Cornelius, Pope, and Cyprian, Bishop, Martyrs. Bible Study: 1 Timothy 1:15-17, Ps. 113:1-7, Luke 6:43-49).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Holy Mary, Mother of Sorrows

Friday, 15th September 2023. Read 1 Timothy 1:1-2,12-14, Ps. 16:1-2,5,7-8,11, John 19:25-27

“When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple he loved standing near, he said to his mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son!’ Then he said to the disciple, ‘Behold, your mother!’ (John 19:26-27)

Today’s feast is a sequel to that of the Exaltation of the Cross. We cannot deny that Mary suffered great pain watching her beloved son suffer. In the Stations of the Cross, we noted: “It is harder to watch the pains of those we love than to bear our pains.” Mary stood beside her son in his moments of agony, scourging at the pillar and carrying on the cross and crucifixion. She remained even while his close friends, the disciples, fled for their dear lives. Today, we shall consider the seven sorrows of Mary.

1. First Sorrow of Mary - The prophecy of Simeon at the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple. (Luke 2:22-35). Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, "Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against (and a sword will pierce through your soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed.

2. Second Sorrow of Mary - The flight into Egypt. (Matthew 2:13-21). When the Magi had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. He said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night, departed to Egypt and remained there until the death of Herod.

3. Third Sorrow of Mary - Finding of Jesus in the Temple. (Luke 2:41-50). After three days, they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. His mother told him, "Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been looking for you anxiously." He said to them, "How is it that you sought me? Did you not know I must be in my Father's house?"

4. Fourth Sorrow of Mary - Mary meets Jesus on the cross. (John 19:1; Luke 23:26-32). And there followed him a great multitude of the people and women who bewailed and lamented him.

5. Fifth Sorrow of Mary - Jesus Dies on the Cross. (Mark 15:22; John 19:18,25-27; Luke 23:46). Standing by the cross of Jesus were his Mother and his Mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing near, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your Mother!” And from that hour, the disciple took her to his own home. And at the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud voice, “E'lo-i, E'lo-i, la'ma sabach-tha'ni?” which means, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”

6. Sixth Sorrow of Mary - Mary receives the dead body of her son. (John 19:31-34,38; Lamentations 1:12). After this, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus. Pilate gave him leave. So he came and took away his body.

7. Seventh Sorrow of Mary - Jesus is laid in the tomb. (Matthew 27:59; John 19:38-42; Mark 15:46; Luke 27:55-56). They took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews…So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, as the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there... The women who had come with him from Galilee followed and saw the tomb and how his body was laid. Then, they returned and prepared spices and ointments.

If you agree that Mary carried Jesus in her womb for nine months and went through labour pains to have him, I do not know of any mother who would not feel a thing while watching her innocent son go through all of these. Whatever our present sorrows in this life may be, let us be consoled that we have a mother who was no stranger to sorrow and reach out for our rosary in asking for her intercession.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, grant me the grace to carry diligently the crosses I must carry for the benefit of those around me. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Our Lady of Sorrows. Bible Study: 1 Timothy 1:1-2,12-14, Ps. 16:1-2,5,7-8,11, John 19:25-27).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

From Shame to Glory

Thursday, 14th September 2023. Read Numbers 21:4-9, Ps. 78:1-2,34-38, John 3:13-17

“As Moses lifted the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted.” (John 3:14)

Today we celebrate the feast of the exaltation of the Holy Cross upon which Jesus Christ died for our salvation. We celebrate Christ’s victory over sin and death. Just as a tree was the source of humanity's downfall in the Garden of Eden, a tree (the cross) was the object upon which Christ redeemed humanity. When Jesus carried the cross, he corrected the mistake of Adam. The tree, a symbol of death for Adam, has now become a symbol of life for humanity.

When the Israelites sinned in the wilderness, God’s anger blazed upon them, and fiery serpents bit the people. They cried for mercy, and God instructed Moses to set up a bronze serpent so that anyone who looked at it would be healed. Was this a violation of the First Commandment? Did the children of Israel become idol worshippers by looking at the bronze serpent?

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus explains that the bronze serpent symbolises the cross upon which he would be lifted. When we look at the Cross with faith, we receive healing from the bites of the physical and spiritual fiery serpents around us.

It is one thing to notice the presence of the Cross in a Church, on the wall, or in your home, but a different thing to look at it with devotion. Meditate on the Cross; recall the passion of Jesus Christ. Place yourself in the crowd standing at the Cross's feet on Good Friday. Ask God for pardon for your sins. Beg Jesus to remember you like that thief who was crucified beside Jesus.

Today’s feast began with discovering the Holy Cross of Jesus Christ around the area where Jesus was crucified. In identifying this particular cross, a sick man received instant healing when placed on it. Why is the cross so powerful? 1. It symbolises the Trinity. 2. It is the object upon which Jesus Christ defeated the devil. 3. On the cross, Jesus asked pardon for our sins. 4. On the Cross, Jesus said: “It is finished.”

We celebrate the Cross of Jesus Christ today and the various crosses we bear as Christians. In the Beatitudes, Jesus told us to “rejoice and be glad” when we are persecuted, insulted, excluded, oppressed or denied our rights for His Sake. This is what we are doing today – rejoicing in our sufferings, knowing that for every pain we endure, a crown awaits us in heaven.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, I take up my cross again, see me through as I carry it. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (The Exaltation of the Holy Cross – Feast. Bible Study: Numbers 21:4-9, Ps. 78:1-2,34-38, John 3:13-17).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Living by the Beatitudes

Wednesday, 13th September 2023. Read Colossians 3:1-11, Ps. 145:2-3,10-13a, Luke 6:20-26

“Seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth (Colossians 3:1-2)

In today’s first reading, St. Paul clearly defines the true essence of Christianity when he says: “If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above… put to death what is earthly in you: immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire and covetousness which is idolatry. Put away anger, wrath, malice, slander, and foul talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another.”

Over two thousand years ago, Jesus gave us the beatitudes, which may be referred to as the be-attitudes of His followers; that is to say, the attitudes that we must possess. Unlike Matthew’s version, Luke presents blessings and curses.

Be poor in spirit; do not be haughty, rude or arrogant. Be eager for salvation. Do not simply gloss over evil in the world. Do not be indifferent to the problem of immorality, indecency and corruption. Of course, fighting evil and injustice by shining your light will create more enemies than friends for you. Jesus says we should rejoice even in our sufferings for His sake.

Jesus says: “Woe to you that are rich… that are full now… that laugh now… when all men speak well of you…” This statement of Jesus is quite scary, considering that these are the very things that we often strive to attain. What is wrong with being rich, eating to our full, laughing or enjoying a positive reputation?

To this question, St. John answers: “Do not love the world or the things in the world. The love of the Father is not in those who love the world, for all that is in the world-- the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, the pride in riches-- comes not from the Father but from the world. And the world and its desire are passing away, but those who do the will of God live forever.” (1 John 2:15-17)

Also, St. James adds: “Those conflicts and disputes among you, where do they come from? Do they not come from your cravings that are at war within you? …You do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive because you ask wrongly to spend what you get on your pleasures. Adulterers! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore, whoever wishes to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” (James 4:1-4)

Let us put to death our earthly passions and desires. Aspire for sainthood instead of aspiring to be rich. Instead of working to achieve fame and glory and be spoken of highly by people, devote your time towards securing a seat in heaven.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, work in me a miracle; change my heart completely and make me more like you. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saint John Chrysostom, Bishop, Doctor. Bible Study: Colossians 3:1-11, Ps. 145:2-3,10-13a, Luke 6:20-26).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu