A CHRISTIAN WORKER’S GUIDE TO FRUITFULNESS

Wednesday, 1 May 2024. Readings: Acts 15:1-6, Ps. 122:1-5, John 15:1-8

“Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” (John 15:4)

Today, the first of May is known as International Workers Day. In many countries, it is observed as a public holiday to celebrate workers' contributions to national development. For us Christians, today is a day to remember the man who taught Jesus Christ how to work and because of whom Jesus was addressed as ‘the Carpenter’s Son’. While we join the world to celebrate workers, we celebrate St. Joseph, the head of the Holy Family. This feast was instituted by Pope Pius XII in 1955. Coincidentally, today’s readings present some salient points on achieving fruitfulness as workers.

1. Do Not Be Distracted By Traditions: Every organisation (company or group) has certain codes of conduct that guide its staff or members. Some of these codes have been practised for many years and may have lost their relevance over time but have become ingrained in the mentality of such organisations. For instance, in today’s first reading, some men from Judea brought a disturbing teaching to the Christian converts: “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” Meanwhile, circumcision was only a sign, not the essence of the covenant with God. “You shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskins, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between you and me.” (Genesis 17:11). By emphasising circumcision, these Jewish Christians did not realise the importance of Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross. Are there traditions around my work that have lost relevance over time?

2. Stay Connected to Jesus: There is a saying that “What is beyond six is more than seven.” As a worker in any field, pay attention to your spiritual life and do not depend solely on your human efforts and skills. Jesus tells us today: “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me.” Listen to Jesus daily. Obey God’s commandments. Do not worship money. Today, many business people, including so-called Christians, get entangled with the devil, all in the name of protecting their business. By so doing, they mortgage their souls. The devil can never bless you.

3. Glorify God By Your Work: “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be my disciples.” (John 15:7-8). As a Christian worker, remember that you are a missionary. In other words, we should aim for productivity and fruitfulness. Beyond doing your job excellently to satisfy your customers and employers, aim to win souls for God. This can only happen when you are prayerful and abide in (study) God’s Word daily. Remember, you cannot give what you don’t have. You cannot convert your fellow workers if you are not well-grounded in God’s Word or are not prayerful.

4. Make St. Joseph Your Role Model: As a worker, emulate the virtues of St. Joseph, which include righteousness – a commitment to do what is right and not cut corners, protection of the family – being ready to take risks for the good of those under your care, hard work and diligence – see work as a blessing and not as a curse, chastity – avoid all forms of immorality, obedience to God – seek to please God above everything else, silence – let your actions speak louder than your words, prudence – never rush to decide anything; sleep over the issue and let God speak to your heart. When work gets hard and tough, ask St. Joseph to pray to God on your behalf, and He who wasn’t afraid of work will intercede for you.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, grant me the grace to abide firmly in you always. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Wednesday of the 5th week of Eastertide or Saint Joseph the Worker. Bible Study: Acts 15:1-6, Ps. 122:1-5, John 15:1-8).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

The Mother of Jesus Was There

Tuesday, 30 April 2024. Readings: Acts 1:12-14, Luke 1:46-55, Luke 1:26-38

“Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, what concern is that to you and me? My hour has not yet come.’ His mother said to the servants, ‘Do whatever he tells you.’” (John 2:4-5)

As April ends today, we celebrate a Feast that perfectly sets us in the mood for devotion to Mary, given that May is Mary’s Month. Today is the feast of Our Lady, Mother of Africa. Our Gospel passage today captures that familiar scene of the Wedding Feast at Cana. The role Mary played in ensuring the miracle is one reason we often turn to her when we pray to God.

First, Mary understood the problem and immediately informed Jesus that “they have no wine.” In other words, “Do something.” Mary teaches us to have faith in Jesus.

Secondly, we see that Jesus has very high regard for Mary. Jesus initially protested, “My hour has not yet come”, but Mary pressed further. Mary teaches us never to give up when we pray for anything.

Thirdly, after successfully convincing Jesus to help the couple, Mary told the servants, “Do whatever He tells you” (John 2:5). Mary teaches us to trust and obey God.

Fourthly, after the miracle, we do not hear anything from Mary. She remained in the background. Mary teaches us humility. She does not brag like some of us do.

Mary is the definition of an intercessor. If we ask human intercessors to pray for us, we should not be afraid to ask Mary to pray for us, whether we are Catholics or not. Asking for her intercession is not worshipping her.

Our first reading tells us that Mary was present with the Apostles in the Upper Room, where they devoted themselves to prayer. They took her as their mother. Anyone who acknowledges that Jesus Christ is fully human and fully God knows that Mary is not just any woman; she is not an envelope God used and dumped.

In our responsorial psalm today, Mary declares: “Henceforth, all generations will call me blessed” not because she is some goddess but because “He who is mighty has done great things for me” (Luke 1:48-49). We honour Mary because God honoured her first.

Today, we celebrate the fact that Mary intercedes for Africa. When Herod sought to kill the baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph took shelter in Africa. At a time when our continent is faced with turmoil and suffering under the yoke of neo-colonialism, we need Mother Mary’s intercession more than ever.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, may your mother pray for us. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Our Lady, Mother of Africa - Feast. Bible Study: Acts 1:12-14, Luke 1:46-55, Luke 1:26-38).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

NOT TO US, O LORD, BUT TO YOUR NAME GIVE THE GLORY

Monday, 29 April 2024. Readings: Acts 14:5-18 Ps. 115:1-4,15-16, John 14:21-26

“Paul, looking intently at him and seeing that he had faith to be made well, said in a loud voice, ‘Stand upright on your feet.’ And he sprang up and walked.” (Acts 14:9-10)

In today’s first reading, Paul and Barnabas fled for their lives upon hearing a rumour that a combined team of the Gentiles and the Jews were planning to molest them and stone them. Why did they run for their dear lives? First, remaining in that town would only put God to the test. Secondly, evangelisation is never forced. While sending out the twelve, Jesus said: “Wherever they do not receive you, when you leave that town, shake off the dust from your feet as a testimony against them.” (Luke 9:5). In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus stated that He will manifest Himself only to those who keep His commandments. Salvation is not by force. Let us now examine today’s lessons in detail:

1. Do Not Put God to the Test: There is a difference between exercising one’s faith and acting irrationally (throwing caution to the wind). Unfortunately, many Christians do not know where to draw the line. Some time ago, we heard of a certain man of God who claimed he could jump into the lion’s den and be unharmed. At first, the lions left him in peace. He started shouting: “Do you see? The lions can’t harm me.” The noise rattled the lions, and one of them came from behind him and dealt a terrible blow. Remember the words of Jesus: “Behold, I send you out as sheep amid wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” (Matthew 10:16). By running away, Paul and Barnabas applied the wisdom of serpents.

2. There is a Time to Run, a Time to Fight Back and a Time to Surrender: Running away when you can is not a sign of timidity or lack of faith; it is doing what is best. Do you know that Jesus escaped on several occasions when people wanted to kill Him? In Matthew 2:13-15, an Angel warned Joseph to flee to Egypt to escape Herod’s planned massacre. In Luke 4:28-30, Jesus’ townsfolk took him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, and they wanted to throw him down headlong, but Jesus slipped through the crowds. In John 8:59, the Jews took up stones to stone Jesus, but Jesus hid Himself. Again, in John 10:31-35, they picked up stones to throw at Jesus, but Jesus escaped. However, at the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus knew it was time to surrender.

3. Go Where You are Appreciated: A man and his son an old wristwatch to sell, saying: “If anyone asks the price, don’t say anything, just point out two fingers.” The boy went to the local market, where a young man asked the price, and the boy raised two fingers. The man asked: “Do you mean two dollars?” The boy took the watch to a pawn shop. When the dealer saw it, he said: “This is a classic watch; I will give you twenty dollars.” The boy took the watch to a museum, and surprisingly, someone offered to buy it for two hundred dollars. Still, the boy took the watch to an antique trade fair, and a man offered to buy it for two million dollars. Never judge your worth by the negative behaviour of others. Did Jesus remain in Nazareth after He was rejected? He didn’t need to force anyone to believe; he left them and went elsewhere. The same Barnabas and Paul who ran like thieves from Iconium became gods at Lystra. Barnabas became Zeus and Paul; they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker. For healing a cripple who had never walked from birth, they could not stop the people from offering sacrifices to them. Those making life difficult for you may not know they are pushing you to glory.

4. Have Faith; With God, All Things are Possible: How on earth did Paul and Barnabas cure the cripple? First, they began by preaching the Word. As they preached, Paul looked at the cripple and “seeing he (the cripple) had faith to be made well, said in a loud voice: ‘Stand upright on your feet.’ He sprang up and walked.” (Acts 14:9-10). The cripple contributed to his miracle because he had faith. This is why Jesus would always say to those he cured: “Your Faith has made you well.” (Matthew 9:22, Mark 10:52, Luke 17:19). Miracles happen not because the man of God is powerful but because we had faith to expect such miracles. Do not idolise the person who prayed for you; they are only instruments. By believing, you contributed to your testimony. Remember that Jesus said: “If you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.” (Matthew 17:20). “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in me will also do the works that I do, and greater works than these will he do because I go to the Father.” (John 14:12).

5. If You Love Someone, You Will Follow Their Rules: In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus said: “He who has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me.… If a man loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home in him.” (John 14:21,23). A man who truly loves his wife will never cheat on her and vice versa. You cannot claim to love God and still derive pleasure in disobeying His commandments. It is either you love God, or you are only interested in the benefits you gain from God – like the crowds who followed Jesus looking for bread, and when the bread was not forthcoming, they deserted Him. Our churches may be packed full, but God is interested in those who truly love Him.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, draw me nearer to you daily. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Saint Catherine of Siena, Virgin, Doctor. Bible Study: Acts 14:5-18 Ps. 115:1-4, 15- 16, John 14:21-26).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

WE ARE BRANCHES; JESUS IS THE TREE. WE NEED JESUS; WE NEED EACH OTHER

Sunday, 28 April 2024. Readings: Acts 9:26-31, Ps. 22:26-28,30-32, 1 John 3:18-24, John 15:1-8

“I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit because apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

Last Sunday, we celebrated our Lord Jesus Christ as our Good Shepherd, who lays down his life for us, his sheep. Without Jesus guiding and guarding us, we would become prey to the thief who comes to steal, kill and destroy. (John 10:10). Today, Jesus emphasises our dependence on Him by describing himself as the Vine that sustains us, the branches. As branches of Jesus, the Vine, our survival depends on our ability to remain connected to Jesus. Today’s Psalm praises God in acknowledging His great deeds in our lives. When we reflect on our dependence on God, we praise Him.

Life is all about connection. No human being can survive entirely on their own. No one is an island. Just as we need to remain connected to Jesus to stay alive spiritually, we also need to be connected to our fellow human beings to remain alive. In today’s First Reading, Barnabas saved Saul from disaster by removing him from an environment of distrust. Barnabas believed in him when other disciples feared associating with Saul. We all need someone who can stand for us when the world rejects us. We need good friends. As St. John explains in today’s Second Reading, we need friends who love not merely with words but with action. There are so many lessons contained in today’s readings:

1. Without Jesus, we are Nothing.
Just as branches die off when cut from the tree, without Jesus, we are nothing. Jesus says: “Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.” (John 15:6). Without a healthy spirituality, without a solid relationship with Jesus, everything falls apart in our lives. We cannot be successful without Jesus, be it in business, marriage, school, pastoral ministry, or name it. Without Jesus, we are like dry grass in the field, lifeless and unproductive. Someone might ask: “Father, what about those who don’t know Jesus? What about those developed countries that are not as religious as Nigeria? Are they not doing better?” I recently saw a video mocking Africans for their religiosity.

It is important to clarify this point: Prayer does not take the place of work; it only adds to it. Prayer cannot replace work (the effective use of one’s reasoning faculties). If God has given you the ability to think, you will insult Him by refusing to think just because you have prayed. We do not pray because we cannot work (or do not want to work). Rather, we pray because we want God to bless our work. We do not pray because we lack creativity but because we want God to help us maximise our natural endowments. We pray because we know human efforts without God’s divine touch are useless. “The human mind plans the way, but the Lord directs the steps.” (Proverbs 16:9). “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, says the Lord of hosts.” (Zechariah 4:6). Jesus is the Vine, we are the branches. Branches depend on the tree but do not leave all the work for it; they work just as hard as the tree.

2. The Secret to Answered Prayers is abiding in the Word
Jesus says: “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” (John 15:7). There is power in the daily study of God’s Word. This is why God instructed Joshua: “This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to act by all written in it. You shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall be successful. (Joshua 1:8). It is not enough that we pray; we must study the Bible daily. Jesus emphasises abiding in the Word. This means reading it over and over again. Do not say: “I have finished reading the Bible; I know everything in it.” This is like saying: “I will not eat anymore since I already know how food tastes.” Have you ever noticed how you read a passage you have read before, and it suddenly strikes as if you are reading for the first time? Do not play with God’s Word; the connecting pipe joins us (branches) with the tree. To be cut off from Jesus the Vine is to stay a whole day without reading or meditating on God’s Word.

3. To Abide in Jesus is to Love Your Neighbour as Yourself.
St. John would say: Whoever says, “I am in the light,” while hating a brother or sister is still in the darkness. … Whoever hates another believer is in the darkness, walks in the darkness, and does not know how to go because the darkness has brought on blindness.” (1 John 2:9-11). In another passage, John says: “No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us. By this, we know that we abide in him and he in us.” (1 John 4:12-13) How can we claim to be branches of Jesus (who is love) when we hate one another? Can a bitter leaf branch grow out of a pawpaw tree? Can we carry bitterness and hatred in our hearts and come forward to receive the body and blood of Jesus, who died forgiving His enemies?

Today’s First Reading shows us that not all Christians in the early Church were branches of Christ. 1. Those who almost ended Paul’s missionary enterprise by their poor reception and suspiciousness. 2. Those who could not forgive Paul because of his past even though God had already forgiven him. 3. Those who thought he was pretending. 4. Those who argued with him, hoping to provoke him (trigger the past). 5. Those who conspired to kill him. Sadly, we still have people like this in church today. If you hate your fellow Christians and wish them evil, you are not Christ’s branch; you are just answering a name that is not yours.

4. Every Paul Needs A Barnabas
Barnabas behaved as a true branch of Jesus the Vine because He knew Paul had the potential and zeal of an evangelist. Barnabas introduced Paul to the Apostles. When Paul’s life was at stake, after disputing with the Hellenists (the same group that accused the Hebrews of unfair distribution of food to their widows), the apostles arranged for Paul to be whisked away to Tarsus. Barnabas would later go to Tarsus to bring Paul with him to Antioch. (Cf. Acts 11:25). I pray for you today: May you have a friend like Barnabas – a friend who knows everything about you but sees beyond your past and your limitations, a friend who will save you when others (fake Christians) are trying to kill you, a friend who will teach you and then, allow you to shine. Do you notice that after Barnabas and Paul set out on a journey in Acts 13, not much is heard about Barnabas again? Paul’s name appears in every chapter from Acts 16-28, and more than half of the New Testament, from Romans to Philemon, came from Paul’s handwriting.

I am sure St. John referred to Barnabas when he wrote today’s Second Reading. “Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. And by this, we will know that we are from the truth and will reassure our hearts before him.” (1 John 3:18-19). Action speaks louder than words. In the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus teaches us that it is not enough for us to feel pity for others; we must do something! Saying sorry is useless if you are not going to help.

5. To Abide in Jesus is to Believe and Obey His Commandments.
Still, in our Second Reading, John writes: “All who obey his commandments abide in him, and he abides in them.” (1 John 3:24). We cannot sin while assuming we are connected to the Vine. Have you noticed a dryness in your heart whenever you are not in a state of grace? Whenever you sin, you feel ashamed like Adam and Eve, and you want to hide from God (skip prayer or avoid going to church). This happens because you have cut yourself from the Vine at that moment. Like a branch on the ground thinking it can do without the Tree, we may lie to ourselves that we don’t need God. However, the reality will soon dawn on us like the Prodigal Son. We soon realise that we have lost our source of nutrients and life. If this message speaks to your heart, it is time to reconnect. Return to Jesus; forget your past like Saul, who did not allow his past to disturb his call. Stay with Jesus.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, cut off from me everything and anything that takes me away from you. Wash me from all taint of bitterness, malice and hatred. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (5th Sunday of Easter. Bible Study: Acts 9:26-31, Ps. 22:26-28,30-32, 1 John 3:18-24, John 15:1-8).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Whatever You Ask in Jesus Name, Consider It Done

Saturday, 27 April 2024. Readings: Acts 13:44-52, Ps. 98:1-4, John 14:7-14

“I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If in my name you ask me for anything, I will do it.” (John 14:13-14)

We witnessed a profound metamorphosis in Saul's life a few days ago. As the Christians gathered to pray and fast in Antioch, the Holy Spirit spoke, saying: “Set apart Barnabas and Saul to the work which I have called them.” (Acts 13:2). This marked a significant turning point in Saul’s life, a journey that led to his name change from Saul to Paul. In Acts 13:9-11 we read: “But Saul, who is also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked intently at him and said, ‘…behold, the hand of the Lord is upon you, and you shall be blind and unable to see the sun for a time.’ Immediately, mist and darkness fell upon him, and he sought people to lead him by the hand.” This was the last time the Bible addressed him as Saul, a testament to the transformative power of God's grace in our lives.

As Saul, he persecuted Christians, but as Paul, he fearlessly and fiercely defended the Church to the extent that, in today’s First Reading, the Jews (who knew him as Saul) became envious of him, and they conspired to throw him out of their city. Imagine the best player of a particular football club switching to another club for free and coming home to score goals against the club that raised him. Once again, this is the story of the power of God, with whom nothing is impossible. Jesus throws some light into this supernatural power in today’s Gospel when he said: “If you ask anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:14). Let us examine some lessons contained in today’s readings:

1. Even If the Invited Guests Do Not Come, the Party Must Go On: In Matthew 22:1-14, Jesus gave a parable about the guests invited to a wedding ceremony, but when it was time, they failed to attend. Some gave flimsy excuses; others beat up the servants who only came to remind them about the wedding. The Master, in annoyance, then told the servants to bring in as many people as they could find to the wedding banquet. This parable is exactly what plays out in today’s First Reading. Paul and Barnabas spoke first to the Jews, but the Jews reviled them and contradicted everything they said. Meanwhile, the Gentiles gladly accepted the message and glorified God, and many believed. God’s will must be done. His plans must come to pass. If we also behave like the Jews, God will work with others who are willing.

2. The Name of Jesus is the Most Powerful Name on Earth: Writing to the Philippians, Paul declares: “At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord” (Philippians 2:9-11). In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says: “Whatever you ask in my name, I will do it… if you ask anything in my name, I will do it…” By saying, “I will do it,” Jesus wants us to know He is God and mediator. He is the destination and the road we must follow to get there. Jesus said: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6). Without Jesus, we are lost. Without Him, we cannot know the truth, and no life exists.

3. The Power of Faith in Prayer: In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says: “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I go to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, I will do it, that the Father may be glorified in the Son; if you ask anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:12-14). These words of Jesus underscore the importance of faith in our prayers. Before you start praying, read these verses again and again. If possible, memorise them and repeat them in your heart daily. Do you believe you can do greater things than what Jesus did on earth? Do you trust God will do whatever you ask in Jesus’ Name? Praying without faith is like running on the spot; you exert much energy but no movement. Let us strengthen our faith in the power of prayer, for it is through faith that we truly connect with God.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, increase my faith in the power of your name. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Saturday of the 4th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 13:44-52, Ps. 98:1-4, John 14:7-14).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Let Not Your Hearts Be Troubled

Friday, 26 April 2024. Readings: Acts 13:26-33, Ps. 2:6-11, John 14:1-6

“Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me.” (John 14:1)

In today’s first reading, we read a part of St. Paul’s sermon to the believers at Antioch of Pisidia. This was his first recorded sermon in the Acts of the Apostles. Interestingly, the man who once persecuted the faith became its greatest promoter. As long as you have God on your side, even your greatest enemy today can become your best friend tomorrow. In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says: “Let not your hearts be troubled.” (John 14:1). Is it possible to live without worries? How can we avoid being troubled in our hearts? This brings us to today’s lessons:

1. Life Always Gives Us Reasons To Worry: The first key to overcoming worry is to know that problems never end. A popular pidgin English proverb is: “This life no balance. Wahala be like bicycle.” It means: While solving one problem, get ready for another one. Worrying is a natural reaction to life’s challenges, but you can decide to be calm. Jesus was in a boat with his disciples, and “there arose a great storm on the sea so that the waves swamped the boat, but He was asleep. And they woke him, saying, ‘Save, Lord; we are perishing.’ And He said to them, ‘Why are you afraid, O men of little faith?’ Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm.” (Matthew 8:24-26). Jesus was not expecting his disciples to panic despite the great storm. Don’t wait for your problems to be over before permitting yourself a good night’s sleep.

2. How Do We Turn Off The Worry-Machine in Us? Jesus answers: “Believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms.” In other words, the cure for constant worry is faith in God. Remember that the book of Hebrews defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1). To have faith is to be assured of God’s protection even when all you see with your eyes is danger. To believe in God is to be convinced that God sees and knows what to do regardless of your present circumstances. A good athlete exercises faith to win a race by visualising themselves holding the medal even before the race starts. To have faith is to pray and work, trusting that God will bless your work and make it fruitful. Refusing to work after praying is not a sign of faith; it is putting God to the test and refusing to exercise wisdom.

3. In My Father’s House Are Many Rooms: The second part of Jesus’ statement on how to stop worrying is to remind ourselves that this world is not our final destination. We are pilgrims on earth. Jesus once gave a parable of a man whose land yielded in abundance. The man was excited because his dreams came to pass; his problems were over. It was time to enjoy it because he wouldn’t have to work again. However, that same night, God demanded his soul. (Cf. Luke 12:13-21). While working to achieve your perfect life, remember that you must leave everything behind one day, and where you are going is better than where you are now. Jesus has prepared a place for us, and He will take us there when our time comes. If you must worry, worry about whether you are in a state of grace to enter heaven. Don’t worry about anything that will not matter once you die. Funnily, those are the things that give us sleepless nights. “Do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ … Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek his kingdom and righteousness first, and all these things shall also be yours.” (Matthew 6:31-33)

4. Even The Things You Don’t Like Are Working For Your Good: In today’s first reading, St. Paul says: “Brethren, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you that fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation. For those who live in Jerusalem and their rulers, because they did not recognise him nor understand the utterances of the prophets read every sabbath, fulfilled these by condemning him.” (Acts 13:26-27). In other words, by hating and rejecting Jesus, the Jews helped to fulfil all the prophecies about Jesus. Do you know those making life tough for you right now are pushing you closer to your destiny? Only in hindsight have I realised that my worst moments were times of growth and great progress. One day, you will thank God for blessing you with the kind of troubles you have now.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, increase my faith and cast away my fears and worries. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Friday of the 4th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 13:26-33, Ps. 2:6-11, John 14:1-6).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Wrap Yourself in Humility: Lessons From St. Mark

Thursday, 25 April 2024. Readings: 1 Peter 5:5-14, Ps. 89:2-3,6-7,16-17, Mark 16:15-20

“And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name, they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.” (Mark 16:17-18)

Today, we celebrate one of the great heroes of our Christian Faith. Mark was a personal assistant to the first Pope, St. Peter the Apostle, and the Gospel he wrote was based on what he heard Peter preach as they travelled on the mission of evangelisation.

In today's first reading, Peter even refers to Mark as a son. Mark was not just an assistant but a man who humbly served the mission by applying his talents and gifts. Perhaps Peter had him in mind when he wrote about our need to clothe ourselves with humility.

Indeed, one shining virtue we should all have is humility. Without it, we cannot learn from others or grow. We should never do anything to attract praise or exaltation to ourselves; let us allow God himself to exalt us.

It is believed that Mark was among the Seventy that Jesus sent out two by two to go into the surrounding countries in Luke 10: 1-20. As Luke narrates, the seventy returned rejoicing and declaring how the evil spirits obeyed their bidding.

This is the same reality Mark conveys in the concluding part of his Gospel passage, which we read today. “And they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by signs that attended it.” (Mark 16:20).

As we can see, miracles are signs that accompany and confirm the message, not vice versa. Jesus asked us to go and preach everywhere, but he didn’t say to go and work miracles everywhere. Today’s Christianity has turned things around: No one says, “Come and hear the word of God;” instead, what you hear is, “Come and receive your miracle.”

Any place where miracles are happening yet the word of God is not preached or given little attention and time, we must be on guard for native doctors, magicians, and occultists have taken over the miracle business.

All we are called to do is preach. Let Jesus work miracles according to His will. Mark says, “The Lord worked with them confirming the message by signs…” No one can claim any miracle, but Jesus is the only one who works miracles.

According to scripture scholars, Mark was the first person to write a Gospel as early as 64 A.D. Matthew and Luke copied from him, accounting for the deep similarities in the three Gospels.

Saint Mark’s journey with Saint Peter and Barnabas is recorded in Acts as they travelled through Cyprus and Rome carrying the Word. Church writings accredit Saint Mark with founding the Church in Alexandria and consequently serving as bishop there.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, use me to spread your word like Mark the Evangelist. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Saint Mark, Evangelist - Feast. Bible Study: 1 Peter 5:5-14, Ps. 89:2-3,6-7,16-17, Mark 16:15-20)

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

The Great Commissioning at Antioch

Wednesday, 24 April 2024. Readings: Acts 12:24-13:5 Ps. 67:2-3,5-6,8, John 12:44-50

“I have come as light into the world, that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness.” (John 12:46)

Antioch represents an important turning point in the history of Christianity. Yesterday, we read that: “The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number that believed turned to the Lord.” (Acts 11:21). This news prompted the church at Jerusalem to send Barnabas to them, who, in turn, brought Saul from Tarsus to Antioch. Not only did the church in Antioch experience exponential growth in number, but it was also a place where believers behaved like Christ such that it was at Antioch that people were addressed as Christians for the first time.

In today’s First Reading, we learn that under the guidance of Barnabas and Saul, Antioch was a vibrant church, a community of prophets, teachers, and prayer warriors. “While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’”(Acts 13:2). This is the first recorded instance of the Holy Spirit speaking directly, not just to one person, but to an entire congregation; everyone heard and understood the Holy Spirit’s message. There was no confusion – a shining example of the light that Jesus Christ spoke about in today’s Gospel passage. How do we position ourselves to hear from the Holy Spirit today? In other words, how do we take advantage of the light that Jesus brings? This brings us to our lessons today:

1. Never Neglect Prayer: The Church in Antioch was a prayerful community. If we desire to hear from the Holy Spirit, we must devote time to prayer and fasting. Without prayer, we are powerless against our enemies. Without prayer, we cannot hear from God (spiritually deaf). Without prayer, we cannot see the hand of God in our lives (spiritually blind). Without prayer, we cannot speak blessings over our lives (spiritually dumb). Prayer is the only real master key; it opens both physical and spiritual doors. It also gives us insight into spiritual realities. Jesus is God, yet during His life, Jesus devoted so many hours to prayer to teach us that prayer is the source and summit of spiritual refreshment. Jesus asked the disciples: “So, could you not stay awake with me one hour?” (Matthew 26:40). Do you think giving God an hour daily is too much?

2. Accompany Prayer With Fasting: The Church in Antioch prayed and also fasted. When we fast, we involve our whole body in prayer. Fasting deepens our hunger and thirst for God. Fasting helps us control the desires of the flesh. St. Paul says: “I pommel my body and subdue it, lest after preaching to others I should be disqualified.” (1 Corinthians 9:25-27). In other words, fasting enables us to develop self-control. Fasting also helps to quieten the noises about us so that we can hear more clearly from God. In Luke Chapter 2, we read that Anna, the prophetess, worshipped God with fasting and prayer and never left the temple. Like Simeon, Anna immediately recognised Jesus as the Messiah. Jesus also began his ministry with forty days of prayer and fasting. If you want to hear from God, pray and fast.

3. Obey God’s Commandments, Let Your Light Shine: The church in Antioch was a beacon of light because they were true Christians; they lived as Christ did. If you want to hear from the Holy Spirit, there should be no contradiction between what you externally profess and what you do. In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says: “I have come as light into the world, that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness. If any one hears my sayings and does not keep them… the word that I have spoken will be his judge on the last day.” (John 12:46-48). When we keep God’s word, we become lights to the world and more importantly, God opens our eyes to see beyond the ordinary.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, teach me to discipline myself to hear more and more from you daily. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Wednesday of the 4th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 12:24-13:5 Ps. 67:2-3,5-6,8, John 12:44-50).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

What Happened At Antioch?

Tuesday, 23 April 2024. Readings: Acts 11:19-26, Ps. 87, John 10:22-30

“The works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness to me; but you do not believe, because you do not belong to my sheep.” (John 10:25-26)

On Easter Sunday, Mark tells us that Jesus “appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and he upbraided them for their unbelief and hardness of heart because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen. And He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation.’” (Mark 16:14-15). When Jesus spoke these words, his disciples thought that by “the whole creation”, Jesus meant the Jews living in different parts of the world. They thought that Jesus’ goal was to reform Judaism or, at most, establish a branch of Judaism. The disciples still saw themselves as Jews; they visited Jewish synagogues and prayed with them even though the Jews did not believe in Christ. At this time, Christians were called as “the believers.”

Yesterday, we read that the circumcision party criticised Peter for associating with the Gentiles. They became silent when Peter explained how he saw the Holy Spirit descend upon them. Today’s First Reading tells us after the dispersal (following the death of Stephen, who was killed for arguing with Jews about Christ), some believers went as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, preaching the Gospel only to the Jews. At this point, they still didn’t understand that Jesus came to save humanity and not just the Jews. However, something happened at Antioch that would change history forever. This brings us to our lessons today.

1. God Can Use A Negative Situation to Bring Great Good: Tertullian says, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church.” Whenever the church is persecuted, what usually follows is exponential growth and increase. This is a life principle. We make more progress during adversity than comfort. But for Saul’s persecution, the Christians (believers) would have probably remained in Israel. Stephen’s martyrdom was painful yet bore fruit; Philip discovered his gifts as he carried the Gospel to distant lands, Saul became a convert, and as we see in today’s reading, the message reached the Greeks at Antioch. Does this mean we should be praying for negative situations? No. Rather, we should not despair when bad things happen because God is always with us.

2. What Happened At Antioch?: Firstly, “the hand of the Lord was with them and a great number that believed turned to the Lord.” (Acts 11:21). This teaches us that the success of evangelisation depends on God. The believers who took the Gospel to Antioch were not exceptional (their names are not even mentioned). When the news of the huge number of converts reached the Church in Jerusalem, they sent Barnabas to Antioch to ascertain if this news was true and encourage the believers. God’s hand was upon the believers at Antioch because God wanted the Gospel to reach the whole creation. Those who argue that Christianity is a white man’s religion (foreign to Africans) do not understand that Christ died not just for the Jewish nation but for all humanity. More still, Christianity is not even a white man’s religion. The white-skinned missionaries who brought the faith to Africa were themselves converts.

3. What Happened At Antioch? Secondly, it was at Antioch that the disciples were called Christians for the first time. The Church in Antioch was vibrant because it was a church of converts. Barnabas knew Antioch was the best place for Saul’s faith formation after converting to the faith. Converts do better than traditional Christians. They are on fire for God; having willingly left their past lives behind, they do not mind going to extreme lengths to live out their faith. Converts are like persons falling in love for the first time; there is no pretence. The believers were called Christians because they lived like Christ. Sadly, today, many neither believe nor behave like Christ, yet they assume they are Christians just because they attend Church services. Hence, Jesus said: “Not everyone who says to me, `Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 7:21)

4. The Sheep of Christ Do Not Doubt: To understand what happened at Antioch, let us examine today’s Gospel passage. The Jews saw all the signs Jesus did but were not convinced that Jesus was the Messiah. They told Jesus, “If you are the Christ, tell us.” Jesus answered: “I told you, and you do not believe. The works I do in my Father's name bear witness to me, but you do not believe because you do not belong to my sheep. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:25-27). The Christians in Antioch never met Jesus in person; they probably didn’t see the signs, but when they heard Christ's voice through the missionaries' lips, they recognised Christ and followed Him. As the saying goes, “Never explain yourself to anyone because your true friends do not need it, and your enemies would never believe it.” Jesus did not explain himself to those asking. He said: “You are not my sheep.” Child of God, are you the sheep of Christ? Why do you still doubt? Why are you still scared of the future? Why are you worried about your enemies? Jesus says: “They shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand.”

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, may my actions not betray my faith in you. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Tuesday of the 4th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 11:19-26, Ps. 87, John 10:22-30).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

The Good Shepherd Gives Life To The Sheep

Monday, 22 April 2024. Readings: Acts 11:1-18, Ps. 42:2-3,42:3-4, John 10:1-10

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10)

Among the Jews, some foods are considered unclean and thereby forbidden. These include animals that do not chew the cud and do not have cloven hoofs (for instance, pigs and horses), fish without fins and scales, the blood of any animal, shellfish and other living creatures that creep (such as reptiles) and animals considered fowl (such as vultures, hawks, and owls). For Jesus, what defiles a person is not the food they eat but their heart's content. In other words, no food is unclean. (Cf. Mark 7:18-20).

In today’s First Reading, Peter received a vision where he was asked to kill and eat these ritually unclean animals, and when he protested, he was told: “What God has cleansed, you must not call unclean.” Peter later understood the meaning of this vision when he saw the Holy Spirit descend upon the Gentiles. Peter’s experience was a manifestation of Jesus’ prophecy (which we heard in yesterday’s Gospel passage): “And I have other sheep, that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will heed my voice. So, there shall be one flock, one shepherd.” (John 10:16) What does this teach us?

1. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, Does Not Discriminate: Peter’s experience in Caesarea (the Gentile town where Jesus made Peter head of the Church) teaches us to avoid judging people (or looking down on them) because they are not yet baptised. It shows us that Jesus is a good shepherd who makes room for everyone regardless of nationality, tribe, creed or race. Peter was shocked that the so-called “pagans” received the Holy Spirit as the early Christians gathered in the upper room on Pentecost Day. Peter said: “If then God gave them the same gift as he gave to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could withstand God?” (Acts 11:17).

2. Be Humble, God Can Work With Anyone: Peter’s experience also reminds us of Jesus’ warning to the Jews: “Do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father’; for I tell you, God is able, from these stones, to raise children to Abraham.” (Matthew 3:9). It also reminds us that even non-Christians can work miracles in Jesus’ name. John said to Jesus: “Master, we saw a man casting out demons in your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow with us.” Thinking that Jesus would say, “well done”, John was surprised to hear Jesus say: “Do not forbid him; for he that is not against you is for you.” (Luke 9:49-50) In other words, let us avoid pride. The fact that someone is not a church member does not mean they don’t have access to God. To successfully convert a person, you must respect and recognise their previous beliefs.

3. Am I A Shepherd Or A Thief? Yesterday (Good Shepherd Sunday), we heard Jesus distinguish between the good shepherd and the bad shepherd (the hireling who works only for his pocket). The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep, but the bad shepherd runs when he sees a wolf. Today, Jesus distinguishes the shepherd from the thief. The thief does not enter by the door but climbs another way (jumps the fence). Did I get into power through legitimate channels or “snatching, grabbing and running away with the ballot box”? Secondly, another quality of the thief is their intention. Am I in power to help the sheep (give them life) or steal from them? Is my continued stay in power destroying my sheep?

4. Whose Sheep Am I? Jesus also points out an important quality of His sheep in today’s Gospel passage. “The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” (John 10:3-5) In other words, the sheep of Jesus are those who recognise His voice and listen to Jesus daily, not those who follow the voice of strangers (the worldly-minded).

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, shepherd of my soul, give me a heart that welcomes rather than discriminates others. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Monday of the 4th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 11:1-18, Ps. 42:2-3,42:3-4, John 10:1-10).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Lessons From Jesus, The Good Shepherd

Sunday, 21 April 2024. Readings: Acts 4:8-12, Ps. 118:1,8-9,21-23,26,28-29, 1 John 3:1-2, John 10:11-18

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)

Last Sunday, we read Luke’s account of the events of Easter Sunday. Luke reveals that Thomas was not the only one who doubted the news of Jesus’ resurrection. All the disciples doubted, and even when Jesus appeared to them, they were frightened, thinking He was a ghost. Although Jesus was disappointed at their behaviour, He did not punish or cast them away. Instead, Jesus acted as a merciful shepherd; He showed them his hands and his side (to prove He wasn’t a ghost), ate a piece of broiled fish in their presence and explained the Scriptures concerning Himself.

Today, the fourth Sunday of Easter is also known as Good Shepherd Sunday. This is because today’s liturgy allows us to reflect on Jesus Christ as the shepherd of our souls. For instance, in today’s Gospel passage, Jesus describes Himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep. In today’s Psalm, Jesus is the Good Shepherd because, without Him, everything falls apart; He is the stone rejected by the builders but has become the cornerstone. In today’s Second Reading, St. John reveals that through the sacrifice of Christ, the Good Shepherd, we have become the privileged children of God, and for this, the world hates us. Today’s first reading contains an example of this hatred. Peter and John cured a cripple at the beautiful gate, but instead of receiving praise, they are brought before the Jewish council of rulers and elders.

What qualities of a Good Shepherd are found in Jesus Christ, and how can we imbibe these qualities as we shepherd those under our care? How do we differentiate a Good Shepherd from a Bad Shepherd (or Hireling)? What rights and privileges do we enjoy as God’s Children (the sheep of Jesus, the Good Shepherd)? Can anything disqualify us from being God’s children? Why does Jesus, the Good Shepherd, allow us, His Sheep, to face difficulties and challenges (like Peter and John, who were persecuted for doing a good deed), and how are we to respond to these challenges arising from the world’s hatred? These are some questions we shall examine as we consider today’s lessons.

1. What Qualities Make Jesus Christ the Good Shepherd?
In today’s Gospel passage from John 10:11-18, Jesus provides four answers to this question: 1. Sacrifice - “The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep” (verse 11). 2. Knowledge - “I know my own, and my own know me.” (verse 14). 3. Unity – “I have other sheep, that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, so there shall be one flock, one shepherd” (verse 16). 4. Power – “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.” (verse 18). To be good shepherds, we must imbibe all four qualities; shepherding a people (leadership) is not just about power. Power comes last. In our society, people struggle for power and are ready to do anything to attain it, but they lack other qualities.

_A good shepherd must make sacrifices for the sheep._ Leadership should never be seen as a business enterprise; it is a special vocation which does not enrich the shepherd but secures the wellbeing of the sheep. Jesus is the Good Shepherd by excellence because He willingly offered His life for us on the Cross of Calvary. “The Son of man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45). I wish we could boast of good shepherds in our country, Nigeria. I wish our political shepherds would realise that they have been appointed to serve rather than be served and are there to give their lives as ransoms for the average citizen. I also wish those aspiring for such positions would have sacrifice as their motto.

_You cannot be a good shepherd if you do not know your sheep._ This is another serious problem in our society. Our leaders are completely isolated from the people. Before the elections, they are everywhere – frying Akara in the market, jumping up and down in the church, sitting with children in dilapidated classrooms, sharing money with the local chiefs, etc. They behave like messiahs, but once elected, they move around with bullet-proof vehicles, their convoys as long as the length of their village. To see any of them, one must go through twenty security layers. They no longer feel the pain of the citizens as they spend their days in power flying from one country to another.

_A good shepherd unites the people._ However, we have shepherds who are experts at using religion and ethnicity to divide us. When they sense any atom of unity among the people, they know their power is threatened. To remain relevant, they go to the church or mosque to make inciteful statements in their native language. They know that we Nigerians do not play with our religion because religion is the only source of strength (hope, motivation) that keeps us going amid widespread poverty, hunger and abysmal failure of government. So, they make us believe that adherents of one religion (or tribe) are set to destroy adherents of the other. We swallow this bait and start fighting each other instead of fighting to remove these bad shepherds. We are so distracted hating each other that we do not know our real enemies, the bad shepherds who get into power to steal, kill, and destroy. (Cf. John 10:10).

2. What kind of Shepherd am I? A Good Shepherd or a Hireling
It is easy to know a bad shepherd – one who does not sacrifice for his flock, one who stokes flames of disunity and one who does not know the living conditions of his flock. Above, we have sufficiently used our political leaders as examples. Let us now point our fingers at ourselves. As a Reverend Father, I am powerful because people respect me as a man of God. However, am I working only for my pocket? Am I faithful to my vows (poverty, chastity and obedience), which symbolise sacrifice? Do I know my flock? How often do I call to check on them? Do I even respond to their calls or messages? Do I unite my flock? If I am failing in these, I am a bad shepherd. As a parent or teacher, how do I fare in terms of sacrifice, knowledge of my children or unity? As a leader in any capacity (be it a small social media group such as an admin on WhatsApp or a large corporation with over 500 employees), what kind of a shepherd am I?

3. We are God’s Children Now, and We Shall Be Like God
While Jesus describes us as His sheep, in today’s second reading, St. John adds that through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, we have been raised to the status of children of God. St. Paul explains the full weight of our adoption as God’s children when he says: “When the time had fully come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!’ So through God, you are no longer a slave but a son; if you are a son, then an heir. Formerly, when you did not know God, you were in bondage to beings that by nature are no gods; but now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and beggarly elemental spirits, whose slaves you want to be once more? (Galatians 4:4-9).

Recall that I mentioned that to see a political leader in Nigeria, you must go through twenty layers of security. Do the children of a senator, governor, minister, etc, go through such layers to see their parents? As children of God, we have direct access; we don’t need any protocol to talk to God. In other words, we are powerful. This was the power that Peter tapped when he said to the cripple: “I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk.” (Acts 3:6). Many Christians do not know they have this power; they don’t even relate with God as their Father - like children of a politician begging for food on the streets because they don’t know their father is a governor.

On the other hand, just as the children of a senator (or any other political leader) are expected to behave themselves, we must realise that though we live in the world, we are not of the world. (Cf. John 15:19). Sin, while not disqualifying us from our status as God’s children, alienates us from God.

4. Tough Times Are Meant to Strengthen Us
Why does Jesus, the Good Shepherd, allow us, His Sheep, to face difficulties and challenges (like Peter and John, who were persecuted for doing a good deed), and how are we to respond to these challenges arising from the world’s hatred? Tough times are good for us because they help keep God’s fire burning in us. God is all-powerful – if our enemies appear to be winning, it is not because they have defeated God but because God has permitted them. God is all-loving – if He permits our enemies to deal with us, it is not because He hates us but because He wants to bless us.

I trust God completely. I know He is a Good Shepherd. I know that even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, He is there with me. I that His rod and staff will comfort me. With His rod, He will fight my battles. He will beat my enemies until they repent, as He beat Saul until he became an evangelist. With His staff (that looks like a hook), He will draw me back whenever I go astray.

I know that God will not destroy my enemies to keep me on my toes, but in the presence of these enemies, He will prepare a table before me so that they will see with their eyes that the traps and stumbling blocks they set for me have become the pedestal for my elevation. I know that those who rejected me in the past will one day realise that I have become their cornerstone. I know He will anoint my head with oil and fill me with wisdom like Peter, who spoke eloquently before the rulers and elders. I know that God is my shepherd; when my season of plenty comes, my cup will overflow. (Cf. Psalm 23:4-5)

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, work in and through me to shepherd those under my care. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (4th Sunday of Easter. Bible Study: Acts 4:8-12, Ps. 118:1,8-9,21-23,26,28-29, 1 John 3:1-2, John 10:11-18).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Do You Also Wish To Go Away?

Saturday, 20 April 2024. Readings: Acts 9:31-42, Ps. 116:12-17, John 6:60-69

“Jesus asked the twelve, ‘Do you also wish to go away?’ Simon Peter answered him, ‘Lord, to whom can we go?’” (John 6:56-57)

In today’s first reading, we learn that after the conversion of Saul, the church enjoyed a time of peace. The believers multiplied in strength and number and were comforted by the Holy Spirit. Peter became known as the miracle worker. While we read about the increase in today’s first reading, we are presented with the reality of the decrease in today’s Gospel passage. John reports that many disciples abandoned Jesus after hearing Him teach about giving them His flesh to eat and blood to drink. While they walked away, Jesus did not attempt to call them back, but He turned to his disciples to ask if they, too, wished to go away. What do we learn from these readings?

1. Life Happens In Seasons, Phases, and Stages: As the book of Ecclesiastes teaches: “For everything, there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). No matter what you are going through today, remember that things would change. A new season is on its way. There is a time for the increase and a time for decrease, a time of peace (as we saw in our first reading) and a time of war, a time for sugarcoated messages and a time for hard truths (to sieve out true believers from fake followers as Jesus did in today’s Gospel passage).

2. If You Cannot Endure Bad Times, You Don’t Deserve Good Times: By asking if the twelve wished to leave, Jesus was testing their commitment. Like the crowd, Jesus knew that the twelve did not understand the Eucharist, but He wanted to know if their faith was strong enough to withstand tough times. Many couples deceive themselves by attempting to change the wording of their marital vows. They think it is a curse to promise faithfulness for better, for worse, in good times and bad times, sickness and health, and in poverty and riches. Life combines good and bad times, and there is no escaping the bad times. If you cannot endure the bad times, you won’t be around to enjoy the good times. If Peter had walked away from Jesus when He taught about the Eucharist, would he perform signs and wonders in today’s first reading?

3. Lord, To Whom Shall We Go? By allowing many to leave, Jesus teaches us that religion is not by force. The truth is that there are times we feel like leaving the church or abandoning the Christian faith. For instance, when the document on blessing persons in the irregular union came out, many were forced to question their faith. Before you move to follow the crowd, it is important to ask: Will I find what I am looking for elsewhere? If I think God has failed me, will the devil be better? Peter said: “Lord, to whom shall we go?” Sometimes, all we need is to trust God. No one can completely understand God. Some questions will only be answered in heaven.

4. What Will Be Said About You When You Die? In Acts 9:36-39, we read, “Now there was at Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. In those days, she fell sick and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, imploring him, ‘Please come to us without delay.’ So Peter rose and went with them. And when he had come, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping, showing tunics and other garments Dorcas made while she was with them.” Live a good life so that when you die, no one will have to lie during your funeral. Tabitha was probably not the only Christian who died in that community, but because she was special, the church sent for Peter, and he prayed for her and restored her to life by the power of God.

5. Only Believe, All Things Are Possible: How was Peter able to raise the dead? Jesus says: “Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and will do greater works than these because I am going to the Father. I will do whatever you ask in my name to glorify the Father in the Son. I will do it if you ask me for anything in my name.” (John 14:12-14).

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God when I feel like giving up, speak your word to the depths of my heart. Deepen my love for you and work through me always. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Saturday of the 3rd week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 9:31-42, Ps. 116:12-17, John 6:60-69).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Have Faith, Jesus Lives In You

Friday, 19 April 2024. Readings: Acts 9:1-20, Ps. 117, John 6:52-59

“Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood abide in me, and I in them. Just as the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever eats me will live because of me.” (John 6:56-57)

To the crowds expecting another miracle of the loaves, Jesus declared that the bread He would give was His flesh. This announcement resulted in a dispute among the Jews: “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” By referring to Jesus as “this man”, they forgot how they almost made Him a king. In John 6:14-15 we read: “When the people saw the sign which he had done, they said, ‘This is indeed the prophet who is to come into the world!’ Perceiving then that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, Jesus withdrew again to the mountain by himself.” When people benefit from you, you are a king in their eyes. Still, when the benefits are no longer forthcoming, you suddenly become “this man.”

Jesus would go on to explain more about the Eucharist, but everything He said fell on deaf ears. One musician said: “If it is not making money, then it is not making sense.” This was the attitude of the crowds that day of many Christians today – If going to church (worshipping God) is not putting food on my table, it makes no sense. Nevertheless, today’s first reading is a practical demonstration that receiving the Holy Eucharist is worth more than all the world's money (or food). Let us now examine today’s lessons in detail:

1. The Holy Eucharist Unites Us with Christ: In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus wasn’t speaking figuratively when He said: “He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him”, “He who eats me will live because of me”, and “He who eats this bread will live forever.” These statements mean that when we eat His flesh and drink His blood, Jesus lives in us, and we live in Jesus. Hence, when Jesus appeared to Saul on his way to Damascus, He did not say: “Why are you persecuting Christians?” rather, He said: “Why do you persecute me?” Jesus could feel the pains of the persecuted Christians because they are part of Him. On the other hand, since Jesus lives in you, avoid defiling your body (Jesus’ temple) with sinful thoughts and deeds.

2. The Holy Eucharist Offers Us Protection: Since the Holy Eucharist makes us part of Christ, anyone fighting you for being a Christian is fighting Christ. The Holy Eucharist is the best protection any human can ever have. As Jesus protected the Christians in Damascus from Saul’s raid, Jesus would surely protect you from the plans of your enemies, whether known or unknown. As a communicant, no one can cut short your life or kill you before your time.

3. Humans Judge According to Your Past; God Looks at Your Future: Ananias protested when God asked him to visit Saul: “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to thy saints at Jerusalem; and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call upon thy name.” (Acts 9:13-14). One of our human limitations is our inability to see the future. We judge people (and even ourselves) based on the past, and too often, our judgment is wrong; by so doing, we are like Saul, who couldn’t see even with his eyes open. God alone can see tomorrow. “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel; for I will show him how much he must suffer for my name’s sake.” (Acts 9:15-16). Ananias was scared, but he obeyed in faith. When God requires you to do something seemingly difficult, know that He has gone ahead of you to prepare the way. Do not be afraid.

4. Stop Praying for the Death of Your Enemies: For many of us, Saul deserves death for his role in the death of Stephen, the first Christian martyr. We do not know if Saul was one of those who debated with Stephen, but we are told that the false witnesses who stoned Stephen dropped their clothes at the feet of Saul. Justice and vengeance may seem like synonyms, but they are not. No matter what someone has done to you, surrender them to God. Do not wish them evil. Instead, pray for their conversion and repentance. The worst sinner today can be your saviour tomorrow.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, may I receive your body and blood worthily. Work in me and through me for good. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Friday of the 3rd week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 9:1-20, Ps. 117, John 6:52-59).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Do You Understand What You Are Reading?

Thursday, 18 April 2024. Readings: Acts 8:26-40, Ps. 66:8-9,16-17,20, John 6:44-51

“Then the Spirit said to Philip, ‘Go over to this chariot and join it.’ So, Philip ran up to it and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah. He asked, ‘Do you understand what you are reading?’ He replied, ‘How can I unless someone guides me?’” (Acts 8:29-31)

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus drops a bombshell: “I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread which I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh.” (John 6:51). This teaching was too difficult for the crowds to understand. They had come expecting to eat bread but were told that the bread available was Jesus’ flesh. Meanwhile, by offering His flesh as bread, Jesus brings to pass Isaiah’s prophecy, which the Ethiopian eunuch was reading but couldn’t understand. Today’s readings contain some vital lessons:

1. Pray for Insight and Be Humble to Admit Your Ignorance: In the seminary, my Scriptures Professor always emphasised that the best way to read the Bible is on your knees. In other words, if you want to read the Bible, assume a prayerful posture as one begging God for light; avoid every aura of arrogance. This is because there is more to the Bible than meets the eye. Taking the printed text at face value could confuse you like the crowds in today’s Gospel passage. The Ethiopian Eunuch must have prayed for insight, and God sent Philip to him. When Philip asked if he understood his reading, the eunuch was humble enough to admit: “How can I unless someone guides me?” This story teaches us that the Bible alone is not enough. The Bible is just one leg of a tripod; the other two are Sacred Tradition (which existed before the compilation of the Bible) and The Magisterium (the church’s teaching authority). The Bible contains God’s word, yet without the other legs of the tripod, we cannot fully benefit from it.

2. Be Kind to Strangers: The story of the Ethiopian Eunuch also teaches us that the events of our life are not always by coincidence. As the saying goes: “When the student is ready, the teacher appears.” God sees our hearts; He knows when we are ready for Him. James says: “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” (James 4:8). Just as He sent Philip to the Eunuch, God sends angels our way. This is why we must be careful to heed the warning in the Book of Hebrews: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.” (Hebrews 13:2). The fact that you are highly placed in the society does not give you a right to look down (or maltreat) on people. You can never tell who God may have sent to answer the burning questions in your heart.

3. Listen to the Holy Spirit and Obey His Promptings: Just as God spoke to Philip, God still speaks today. We must develop the habit of spending quiet time praying with God to hear His voice. In 1 Kings 19:11-13, God instructed Elijah to stand on the mountain. A strong wind broke the rocks, a violent earthquake, and a fire, but God was not in any of these but in the “still small voice.” This passage emphasises the need to create an environment of silence to hear God. On the other hand, we must be willing to obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit. As much as God has plans for our lives (Cf. Jeremiah 29:11), we can alter these plans if we refuse to heed His call.

4. No Preacher Can Claim Credit For Success: Philip’s encounter with the Eunuch successfully led to his conversion and subsequent baptism. This success did not come from Philip’s eloquence, holiness, knowledge, teaching skills, ability to work miracles or respectful behaviour. God alone deserves all the glory because He prepared the heart of the Eunuch to receive His Word. Jesus explains this in today’s Gospel passage: “No one can come to me unless the Father draws him.” (John 6:44). The preacher is only an instrument in God’s hands. Avoid idolising the instrument and focus on God. Over time, the church has been blessed with powerful instruments whose stories continue to inspire. Some could bi-locate (be in two places simultaneously), some could appear and disappear like Philip, some died, and their bodies have refused to decay, and the list is endless—all these points to the greatness of God, not the instruments.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, send good people my way daily that I may grow in Spirit. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Thursday of the 3rd week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 8:26-40, Ps. 66:8-9,16-17,20, John 6:44-51).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

From Ashes to Glory

Wednesday, 17 April 2024. Readings: Acts 8:1-8, Ps. 66:1-7, John 6:35-40

“On that day, a great persecution arose against the church in Jerusalem; they were all scattered throughout the region of Judea and Samaria.” (Acts 8:1)

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus continues his sermon on the meaning and importance of the Holy Eucharist. As the crowds listened, they didn’t know that by “bread of life”, Jesus was referring to his flesh and blood. Today’s first reading narrates the great persecution that arose against the church following the death of Stephen. This persecution, though distant in time, echoes the challenges we face in our own lives. During his stoning, the witnesses laid their garments at the feet of a young man named Saul, who became determined to wipe out the entire church. However, this reading concludes on a positive note: “So there was much joy in that city.” (Acts 8:8). What lessons do we learn from today’s readings?

1. God Knows How to Write Straight on Crooked Lines: The first reading teaches us that God can bring good out of even the most painful circumstances. Saul’s persecution pushed the church out of its comfort zone, leading to the discovery of many believers' talents and gifts. Like food that has to be cooked before its nutritional value comes out, hardship helps to cook us. It transforms us, making us stronger, more resilient. One shining example is Philip, who was forced to go to the city of Samaria. Philip succeeded in converting multitudes, and God used him to work great signs and wonders. God knows how to use negative situations to our advantage. Today’s Psalm says: “Cry out with joy to God, all the earth.” Is it possible to cry and still remain joyful? The meaning is: If serving God brings you tears, let your heart remain joyful. Trust that God knows exactly what He is doing.

2. God is Never Far From Us When Bad Things Happen: I am inspired by the fact that as the Christians dispersed, they did not interpret Saul’s persecution as a sign of weakness on the part of God. When Jesus was on the Cross of Calvary, many said: “If this man is truly God’s Son, He will not allow this to happen.” God must have smiled when they made such statements. This shows that even in the face of adversity, faith can be a powerful source of strength. Never think that God is far from you when you face challenges. Never turn your back against God just because your enemies are succeeding. Instead of running from one prayer house to another in a bid to end your challenges, reflect on how you can use these challenges to promote God’s kingdom on earth. Stop waiting for the perfect conditions or the perfect timing.

3. Follow the Narrow Road: The Fear of Change, The Path of Least Resistance, and The Quest for Shortcuts are three great obstacles to success. The bottom line of these three is the strong desire in us humans to avoid suffering by all means, or as Jesus puts it, choosing the wide road instead of the narrow path. Learn to embrace change and avoid shortcuts; if your path requires you to walk through hell, walk as though you own the place. Remember, “Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.”(Psalm 30:5). Jesus says: “When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next; for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel before the Son of man comes.” (Matthew 10:23). In other words, when the going gets tough, keep going.

4. If God Doesn’t Answer Your Prayer, He is Planning Something Bigger: In today’s Gospel passage, the crowd sought Jesus because they wanted a repeat of the miracle of the loaves. Jesus could have fed them with bread, but He wanted them to have something greater than physical bread. The Israelites ate ordinary bread (manna), but they got tired of it at some point and started complaining. Don’t worry if God doesn’t answer your prayer; He knows that you will get tired of what you are asking for with time. Trust that He is preparing something far better for you.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, save me from discouragement and despair. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen

Remember, amid all challenges, choose to be happy. Live with a positive mindset and believe in God’s plan for you. God bless you abundantly. (Wednesday of the 3rd week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 8:1-8, Ps. 66:1-7, John 6:35-40).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu