When the Going is Tough, Love Keeps You Going

Friday, 17 May 2024. Readings: Acts 25:13-21, Ps. 103:1-2,11-12,19-20, John 21:15-19

“Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself and walked where you would, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish to go.” (John 21:18)

Today’s first reading provides concrete historical (verifiable) evidence of Paul’s ordeals for the sake of the Gospel. Governor Festus explains to King Agrippa I how Governor Felix left Paul in prison and how he had tried to intervene in his situation. Paul did not seem disturbed because He loved God with all his heart. In today’s Gospel passage, we notice that Jesus questioned Peter’s love for him before handing the flock to him. To make up for his triple betrayal, Jesus asked Peter three times if he loved Him. What does this teach us?

1. It Is Impossible to Lead Others If Love is Lacking: His ministry would have faltered if Peter did not love Jesus more than everything else. When we love, we can endure whatever suffering or pain may result from what we love. No matter how challenging the task, a person who loves their work will persist until the goal is achieved. Jesus, aware of the challenges of leadership and the persecutions ahead, needed to be certain that Peter truly loved him more than anything else. When you are doing what you love, it no longer feels like work. Leaders with a passion for the people always perform well. Let the love for your mission and the people you serve be your guiding light in leadership.

2. Love Makes Suffering Bearable: For all those times that Peter would have to endure, the memory of his triple “yes” to Jesus’ question would fortify him. Love, a source of strength and resilience, is patient and kind; it takes no record of wrongs; it never ends; it never gives up. Jesus even went as far as predicting the kind of death Peter would die; how he would stretch his hands while others would tie his belt and take him where he did not wish to go. Without love for God, the cross is a punishment, but when there is love in our hearts, the cross is worth carrying. Hence, Jesus said: “He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and he who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me, and he who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.” (Matthew 10:37-38). Am I willing to let go of everything else for His sake, even when I am to get nothing in return? Like Paul, have you suffered, or are you currently suffering anything for your Christian Faith? Remember, when the going becomes tough, love keeps us going. Do not give up.

3. As Ministers of God, We Must Love God More Than Everything in the World: The first question Jesus asked Peter was: “Do you love me more than these?” By “these”, Jesus was referring to the huge catch of fish they had just caught. Jesus wanted to know if Peter loved him more than the riches and pleasures of life. Jesus knew that Peter, being a fisherman, loved fishing. He knew that the devil always tempts us with our desires. He saw how Peter, after the resurrection, felt like abandoning his call to evangelise because of fishing. As pastors, if we don’t love God more than everything the world has to offer, we could easily fall into the temptation of worshipping mammon in the name of religion. Let our love for God be unwavering, and our commitment to Him be steadfast.

Let us pray: Come Holy Spirit, fill our hearts, and enkindle in us your Sacred Fire. 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 7th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 25:13-21, Ps. 103:1-2,11-12,19-20, John 21:15-19).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

United We Stand; Divided We Fall

Thursday, 16 May 2024. Readings: Acts 22:30,23:6-11, Ps. 16:1-2,5,7-11, John 17:20-26

“I do not pray for these only, but also for those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one; even as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee.” (John 17:20-21)

In its first few years, Christianity was not distinct from Judaism. Christians and Jews worshipped side by side in Jewish synagogues. Paul visited these synagogues in every town he visited during his missionary journeys. In some places, he was accepted (converting whole assemblies of Jews to Christianity), but in other places, Paul was chased out, beaten or imprisoned. Apart from the Gentile converts, a large number of those who embraced Christianity were Jews who believed that Jesus was truly the long-awaited Messiah, but those who didn’t believe felt threatened and sought ways to end the spread of Christianity among Jews. However, in their attempt to stop Jews from converting to Christianity in their numbers, the Jewish authorities suffered many setbacks. One of such setbacks was their lack of unity. This brings us to our lessons today:

1. The Christian Life Is A Cross: When he was about to depart from Ephesus, Paul prophesied: “The Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and persecutions are waiting for me.” (Acts 20:23). The more Christlike you are, the more enemies you will have; do not expect life to go smoothly. Challenges must come, but do not be afraid because each will be a stepping stone to greatness. When you feel surrounded by enemies, and all hope is gone, pray Today’s Psalm: “Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.” (Psalm 16). Jesus never promised a problem-free life for his followers. He only promised to be there when you face trials: “Beware of men; for they will deliver you up to councils, and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear testimony before them and the Gentiles. When they deliver you up, do not be anxious how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.” (Matthew 10:17-20). The Holy Spirit told Paul exactly what to say, and when he said it, his enemies started fighting themselves.

2. If We Are Divided, We Cannot Stand: When Jesus was accused of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul, Jesus said: “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand; and if Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself; how then will his kingdom stand?” (Matthew 12:25-26). Every kingdom (nation, church, family, school, company, class, etc.) divided against itself (whether it is a kingdom of light or darkness) is doomed. What did Paul say that turned his enemies against themselves? “Brethren, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees; concerning the hope and the resurrection of the dead, I am on trial.” (Acts 23:6). Both Sadducees and Pharisees are Jews, but they are not united in doctrines. While Sadducees do not believe in the resurrection of the dead, the Pharisees do. Can you now see that when Christians of different denominations fight over doctrines, it only makes the devil happy?

3. Be Wise As Serpents And Innocent As Doves: By siding with the Pharisees and bringing up the issue of resurrection, Paul applied the principle of “Divide And Rule.” Paul knew this was their weak point and used it against them. Although Jesus describes us as sheep amid wolves (we are in the world, but the world hates us because we don’t belong to this world), He advised us to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. (cf. Matthew 10:16). The fact that the world hates you does not mean you should freely give them your head to cut. Faith is not a replacement for common sense but an added weapon in your arsenal. Make use of your reasoning faculties while surrendering everything to God in prayer. If we didn’t need a brain, God would have removed it on the day of our baptism.

4. Christian Unity Must Be Horizontal And Vertical: Today’s Gospel passage is a part of Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer. Knowing that a disunited church would be an easy prey for the thief who comes to steal, kill and destroy (cf. John 10:10), Jesus prayed that “that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as thou hast loved me.” (John 17:22-23). In this prayer, Jesus highlighted the horizontal (“that they may be one even as we are one”) and vertical (oneness with God: “I in them and thou in me”) dimensions of Christian unity. It is not enough that we are united among ourselves; we must also be united with God. Jesus also adds that the world’s appreciation of Christianity depends on the existence of this unity. In other words, disunity is a scandal to non-Christians, and just as Paul exploited the Jewish disunity, disunity among us means we are at the mercy of our enemies.

Let us pray: Come Holy Spirit, fill our hearts, and enkindle in us your Sacred Fire. 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 7th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 22:30,23:6-11, Ps. 16:1-2,5,7-11, John 17:20-26).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

FAKE PASTORS: FIERCE WOLVES IN SHEEP CLOTHING

Wednesday, 15 May 2024. Readings: Acts 20:28-38, Ps. 68:29-30,33-36, John 17:11-19

“I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your selves will arise men speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them.” (Acts 20:29-30)

Today’s readings are prophetic and instructive. Paul looked into the future while addressing the elders (pastors) at Ephesus concerning fake pastors whom he described as ‘fierce wolves.’ In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus also saw the future when He spoke of the world’s hatred against His disciples. Today, this hatred no longer comes from external forces but from fierce wolves in sheep's clothing operating from within the church. How do we identify these wolves? How can we survive as sheep amid these wolves?

1. By Their Fruits You Shall Know Them:
Until they start yielding fruits, it is difficult to tell the difference. Jesus explains this with the parable of the wheat and the weeds in Matthew 13:24-30. The farmer (Jesus) sowed good seeds (good pastors) in his field (the church). At night, the enemy (the devil) sowed bad seeds (fake pastors) in the same field. When the servants saw the weeds springing along with the wheat, they wanted to uproot them, but the master warned that by so doing, they could also pull out the wheat. This is what is happening today. When one fake pastor is identified, there is always an irresistible urge to generalise; that is, consider all pastors the same. We unconsciously pull out both weeds and wheat. This is what the devil wants – to make us believe that anything church is a scam or that religion is irrational. As St. Paul says, “Be alert.” Do not confuse the wheat with the weed. They are not all the same.

2. How Do We Identify Fake Pastors?
In today’s First Reading, St. Paul mentions some characteristics:
(I). Preaching of Falsehood. St. Paul says they speak “perverse things to draw away the disciples after them.” Fake pastors become experts in telling people what they want to hear rather than the truth. (cf. 2 Timothy 4:3-4). After meeting with Jesus, the Samaritan Woman told people: “Come and see a man who told me everything about my life.” (John 4:39). Fake pastors do the same, but they get their information from their spies, not the Holy Spirit. Flee from anyone preaching the gospel of prosperity; God is not a money doubler, and His blessings are not for sale to the highest bidders. You will eat by the labour of your hands, not by the size of your donation. Prosperity preaching only prospers the preacher.

(II). Feeding On The Flock Rather Than Feeding The Flock. St. Paul said: “I coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel… these hands ministered to my necessities, and those with me.” Fake pastors thrive on threatening their members to give, but they never give anything to their congregation. It is one thing to donate in church because you feel God has blessed you, but when you donate for fear of your business collapsing or something bad happening, you are a victim of spiritual terrorism. Run. Fake pastors are very good at quoting scriptural passages out of context. For instance, St. Paul says in today’s first reading that it is more blessed to give than to receive, but he was not talking about members giving in church; St. Paul was talking about pastors giving to their flocks. Fake Pastors are not shepherds; they don’t care about the good of their congregation. Often, they ignore the poor and pay special attention to the rich.

3. How Do We Survive As Sheep Amid Fierce Wolves (Fake Pastors)?
In today’s Gospel passage, we find some clues:
(I). Prayer: Having seen the future and the problems we would encounter as His followers, Jesus prayed for the church. By so doing, Jesus teaches us that prayer is the most powerful remedy to challenges. Prayer is not the only remedy, but we must not ignore it no matter what we do. In this prayer, Jesus asked God to keep us safe from the evil one. While we flee from fake pastors, let us pray for our pastors.

(II). Unity: Jesus prayed for oneness among believers. The reason fake pastors thrive is the lack of unity among Christians. The more new churches break out, the more scandals and abuses we see. A lack of unity translates into a lack of regulation. You hear statements such as: “It is my church; who are you to tell me how to run it?”

(III). Truth: Jesus prayed to God to sanctify his followers in the truth. Fake pastors are like the devil; they are very smart deceivers. When you listen to their lies, you stop believing God and start believing them. Many Christians today are ready to do anything their pastor says, but they are not ready to do what God says. Read the Bible for yourself, and you will know the truth. And the truth will set you free (cf. John 8:32).

Let us pray: Come Holy Spirit, fill our hearts, and enkindle in us your Sacred Fire. 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 7th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 20:28-38, Ps. 68:29-30,33-36, John 17:11-19).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

CHOSEN BY GOD, YET NOT INDISPENSABLE

Tuesday, 14 May 2024. Readings: Acts 1:15-17,20-26, Ps. 113:1-8, John 15:9-17

“And they prayed and said, ‘Lord, who knowest the hearts of all men, show which one of these two thou hast chosen to take place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside, to go to his place.’ And they cast lots for them, and the lot fell on Matthias, who was enrolled with the eleven apostles.” (Acts 1:24-26)

Today, the church celebrates the Feast of St. Matthias, who was chosen to take the place of Judas Iscariot to complete the symbolic number of twelve Apostles. Just as there were twelve tribes of Isreal, it was not merely coincidental that Jesus also chose twelve Apostles from among the large crowds that followed him. The number twelve signifies that Jesus came not to abolish the law and the prophets but to fulfil them. (cf. Matthew 5:17). As such, with Judas Iscariot’s absence, there was a need to complete this number. As we celebrate St. Matthias today, let us reflect on some of the lessons contained in today’s readings:

1. The Office Is Greater Than The Person: While addressing the believers, Peter said: “Brethren, the scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand by the mouth of David, concerning Judas… His office let another take.’” (Acts 1:16 & 20). In other words, the office is indispensable, but the office holder can be replaced anytime. No matter the position you occupy, there is someone who can take your place and even do a better job. Do your best, but take it easy; no matter how good you are, you cannot be there forever. As Matthias was elected to the office once held by Judas Iscariot, all other apostles were eventually replaced by others. This process continues today.

2. God’s Will Must Be Done: In the Gospel of John 15:9-17 (Today’s Gospel passage), Jesus teaches us that regardless of our positions, we all have the same calling: “I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruits and that your fruits should abide.” God will not change His plans because we fail to cooperate with Him. As the Lord’s Prayer says, His will must be done on earth as in heaven. If we fail to live up to the demands of our calling, God will raise others to continue His plans, as Matthias was elected to take the place of Judas Iscariot.

3. Be Humble; There is a Matthias For Every Judas: In Matthew 3:9, Jesus warns: “Do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘we have Abraham as our ancestor’ for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise children to Abraham.” The fact that you hold a very important position (in the church or society) does not give you the right to look down on anyone. The higher you go, the humbler you should be. Jesus said: “He who is greatest among you shall be your servant; whoever exalts himself will be humbled” (Matthew 23:11-12). It takes humility to acknowledge one’s fault and beg forgiveness. One of Judas’ mistakes was his failure to beg for God’s forgiveness like Peter did (after denying Jesus three times). Nobody is above mistakes. Don’t let pride drive you to take your life; face the shame and ask for mercy.

4. Show Me Your Friends And I Will Tell Your Future: Make sure that the company of friends you keep going in your direction. Both Mathias and Joseph Justus were friends of the Apostles. Peter noted: “So one of the men who had accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us - one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection” (Acts 1:21-22). The kind of friends you make determines your future.

5. Be Prayerful, No One Knows What is in Another Person’s Mind: The behaviour of Judas Iscariot must have shocked the apostles. They never imagined he could plan such. “And they prayed and said, ‘Lord who knows the hearts of all men, show us which one of these two you have chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside, to go to his place” (Acts 1:24-25). The Apostles prayed; they did not rely on their judgment or experience.

According to Wikipedia, St. Matthias planted the faith in Cappadocia and on the coasts of the Caspian Sea, residing chiefly near the port of Issus. The Synopsis of Dorotheus contains this tradition: “Matthias preached the Gospel to barbarians and meat-eaters in the interior of Ethiopia, where the sea harbour of Hyssus is, at the mouth of the river Phasis. He died at Sebastopol and was buried near the Temple of the Sun.” Another tradition maintains that the Jews stoned Matthias in Jerusalem and then beheaded.

Let us pray: Come Holy Spirit, fill our hearts, and enkindle in us your Sacred Fire. 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 Matthias, Apostle - Feast. Bible Study: Acts 1:15-17,20-26, Ps. 113:1-8, John 15:9-17).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

BE OF GOOD CHEER: JOY AS A FRUIT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Monday, 13 May 2024. Readings: Acts 19:1-8, Ps. 68:2-7, John 16:29-33

“In the world, you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

The only thing worse than pain is feeling bad about the experience of pain. It is one thing to face tough times, but being unhappy about our situation only worsens things. In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says: “In the world, you have tribulation, but be of good cheer.” Is it possible to face tribulation cheerfully, to suffer and smile? To understand the “how” of facing tribulation cheerfully, we must look into the “why.” Why should we suffer and smile? Jesus says: “I have overcome the world.”

We must be of good cheer because we are fighting a won battle; no matter what the world does to us, it cannot undo Christ’s victory on the Cross of Calvary. We must be cheerful because our tribulations are temporary; life happens in seasons and stages. We must be of good cheer because joy is a sign of victory; our enemies are confused when they see us happy despite their plans. We must be of good cheer because joy is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Let us now explore these points in detail:

1. It Takes Faith To Be Happy: My motto, “Be Happy, Live Positive”, was born from a realisation that God did not create us to live a miserable life. As St. Paul would say: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice…. Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7). By prayer and supplication, let your requests be made known to God. In another passage, St. Paul adds: “Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Life’s challenges are inevitable; we cannot solve all our problems, but we can at least find peace by entrusting our difficulties to God.

2. Happiness is A Sign of Victory: Develop the courage to laugh even when the world gives you many reasons to cry. As unreasonable as it sounds, laughing releases certain neurotransmitters in your brain that help you calm down and activate your creative power; you start seeing solutions to your problems. If you are stuck in a hole, you can either cry (complain, shout, make a fuss, blame everybody, insult God, regret being alive, etc.) or find even the tiniest glimmer of light and start climbing out. Paul and Silas were stuck in prison; they were facing tribulation. Their hands and feet were chained to the walls, but no one could chain their spirits. In the heart of prison, they demonstrated their strength and resilience – cheerfully sang songs of praises; behold, there was a manifestation of the Holy Spirit. Crying helps to clean the eyes and bring some temporary relief to pain. However, crying is the best entertainment for your enemies. Eventually, you have to dry your tears and activate your faith.

3. Tribulations Make Life Meaningful: Can you imagine how boring life would be without tribulations? During His priestly prayer, Jesus said: “I have given them thy word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, even as I am not. I do not pray that thou shouldst take them out of the world, but that thou shouldst keep them from the evil one.” (John 17:14-15). Jesus doesn’t want us removed from the world or our troubles taken away; He prays that we are protected from evil. Happiness comes not from the absence of tribulations but from surviving these tribulations.

4. One of The Twelve Fruits of The Holy Spirit is Joy: Sometimes, we forget that being moody and looking downcast is not among the fruits of the Holy Spirit. We often assume that someone with the Holy Spirit shouldn’t be joyful. However, we must not confuse the joy of the Holy Spirit with worldly pleasure. As Jesus says: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.” (John 14:27). The joy the Holy Spirit gives us is not in the elimination of tribulations but in the ability to remain calm regardless of whatever life throws at us. As we continue our novena to the Holy Spirit, we pray that just as He descended upon the men of Ephesus after Paul laid hands on them, He may descend upon us to revive our drooping spirits.

Today is also the anniversary of the apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Fatima, Portugal, in 1917 to the three shepherd children, Lucia dos Santos and her cousins Jacinta and Francisco Marto. The visions occurred from May to October on the 13th day of each month. Pope John Paul II was devoted to Our Lady of Fatima and attributed his survival of an assassin’s bullet on 13 May 1981 to her intervention. Jacinta and Francisco were beatified on 13 May 2000. (From Universalis App)

Let us pray: Come Holy Spirit, fill our hearts, and enkindle in us your Sacred Fire. 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 7th week of Eastertide or Our Lady of Fátima. Bible Study: Acts 19:1-8, Ps. 68:2-7, John 16:29-33).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

LESSONS FROM MATTHIAS’ ELECTION AND JESUS’ PRIESTLY PRAYER

Sunday, 12 May 2024. Readings: Acts 1:15-17,20-26, Ps. 103:1-2,11-12,19-20, 1 John 4:11-16, John 17:11-19

“Holy Father, protect them in the name that you have given me, so that they may be one, as we are one.” (John 17:11)

Last Sunday, Jesus told us that as branches, we are called to bear fruits that will last. The key to bearing fruits is to love one another as He loved us (Cf. John 15:12). It is easy to love those who love us, but to love as Jesus loved, we must be like God, who allows his rain to fall on both the good and the bad (cf. Matthew 5:45). That is, we must love everyone equally regardless of their language, race or religion. Like God, we must never show partiality (Cf. Acts 10:45). Peter learnt this when he saw the Holy Spirit descend upon Cornelius and his house even though they were still uncircumcised. Loving one another as Jesus loved us is difficult, yet it makes us children of God. In last Sunday’s Second Reading, St. John clearly warned that anyone who does not love his fellow human beings does not know God.

Today’s First Reading reminds us of one man who failed to love others, one who loved money more than his friends and went to sell Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus referred to Judas Iscariot as the “son of perdition.” It is easy to condemn Judas Iscariot, but we can only benefit from the story by seeing Judas Iscariot in ourselves and repenting while we still have time. In today’s Second Reading, St. John continues his sermon on the need to love one another as children of God. When we love, we abide by God, and God lives in us. In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus does not deliver a sermon but prays a very powerful prayer for us, His followers. Let us now examine this prayer and consider the lessons contained in today’s readings:

1. “Holy Father, Keep Them In Your Name…” (John 17:11)
The first request in Jesus’ Prayer is for God to keep us in His Name. Jesus is praying for our faithfulness, loyalty, perseverance, steadfastness, commitment, and resilience as His disciples. He prays that we would remain His disciples, unwavering even in the face of the challenges and storms that life inevitably brings. There's a saying, "Tough times don’t last, but tough people do.” By praying that we remain in God’s Name, Jesus is essentially praying that we become tough. Show me a person who stands by you in both good times and bad, and I'll show you a true friend. A person who abandons you when things get tough doesn't deserve to be called your friend. This is the essence of the church’s approved formula for marital vows – for better or worse, richer or poorer, in sickness and health till death do us part. Faithfulness is the ability to remain loyal to a cause or someone, regardless of the circumstances.

In today’s First Reading, when the disciples gathered to select a replacement for Judas, their criterion was faithfulness. Peter said: “One of the men who have accompanied us during all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John until the day when he was taken up from us – one of these men must become with us a witness to his resurrection.” (Acts 1:21-22). To restore the vacuum created by Judas Iscariot, who was more faithful to his pocket than to Jesus (and failed to remain with Jesus by asking forgiveness afterwards), the disciples wanted someone who remained faithful even when nothing was at stake. Do you remember when many of Jesus’ disciples left him due to the issue of the Holy Eucharist? (Cf. John 6:66-68). Jesus even asked the twelve if they also wished to leave.

Isn’t it surprising that only two people passed the faithfulness test? Despite the large crowds accompanying Jesus everywhere? Only Joseph Justus and Matthias were there from the beginning and remained until the end. If you look around you, you will see a church packed full of people, but the question is, how many of us will remain faithful to the end? No wonder Jesus said: “The gate is wide, and the way is easy, that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard, that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” (Matthew 7:13-14).

2. “That They May Be One, Even As We Are One.” (John 17:11).
The second request of Jesus in this prayer was for unity among His followers. If you want to conquer any group, be it as small as a family or as large as a country, make them fight one another, and they are finished. To appreciate the value of unity, let us reflect on what we have suffered as a people in this part of the world all because of disunity. Even as a church, have we been united? Haven’t we acted as Judas Iscariot at various times to bring down our fellow parishioners? Haven’t we leaked out the secrets of persons close to us to their enemies all because of money? Haven’t we betrayed our colleagues in school or at work with a kiss?

In the Lord’s Prayer, we refer to God as “Our Father”, but in reality, we hardly behave like brothers and sisters of the same Father. Disunity among Christians is a great scandal. Imagine you are an unbeliever; how would you feel when you see Catholics fighting Pentecostals, Christian Mothers fighting CWO, Charismatics fighting Legion of Mary or members of Living Faith fighting members of Dunamis? It is a shame. As St. Paul puts it: “Brother goes to law against brother, and that before unbelievers? To have lawsuits at all with one another is a defeat for you. Why not rather suffer wrong? Why not rather be defrauded?” (1 Corinthians 6:6-7).

This reminds us of St. John’s teaching in last Sunday’s Second Reading: “Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and he who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God; for God is love.” (1 John 4:7-8). Disunity among us is a sign that we are churchgoers, not Christians. Today, St. John tells us that no one has ever seen God, but we make God visible when we love one another. “God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” (1 John 4:16). Is there someone I have refused to forgive? Is there a brother or sister that I hate even when they haven’t offended me? What is God saying to me right now?

3. “Leave Them in The World But Keep Them From The Evil One. (John 17:15)
The third request of Jesus in this prayer was for God’s protection for us, His followers. Why does Jesus ask God to keep us from the evil one? Jesus answers this question within the same prayer: “I have given them your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” (John 17:14). In other words, Jesus prays to God to protect us because He knows that as long as we let our light shine as his followers, we cannot escape the hatred of the world. Wouldn’t it be better if God removed us from a world that was hostile to Jesus and continued its hostility against His followers? Here is the twist – even though the world hates us, the world needs us to survive. The world hates us, yet we are the light and salt of the world. (cf. Matthew 5:13-16). If God were to remove all the good people from the world today, the world would cease to exist in a matter of days.

Jesus wants us to remain in the world, but He understands the dangers ahead. He knows that we are like sheep amid wolves. (cf. Matthew 10:16). In the words of St. Paul, we are not wrestling against flesh and blood “but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12). There are some battles that only God can fight for us. This is why Jesus prays that God would keep us from the evil one. In this same light, in today’s First Reading, the Apostles prayed: “Lord, who knowest the hearts of all men, show which one of these two thou hast chosen to take the place in this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside, to go to his place.” (Acts 1:24-25). Never underestimate prayer – your power over the forces of evil in our world today.

4. “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.” (John 17:17)
The final request of Jesus in His priestly prayer is that His followers would become sanctified in the truth, which is the Word of God. There is power in the Word. It is our ticket to salvation. As Jesus says: “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” (John 8:31-32). To be sanctified in the truth is to be devoted to studying God’s Word. How often do I study and meditate on the Bible? On the other hand, am I committed to spreading the truth? As we celebrate World Communications Day today, we are called to ponder our use of various communication technologies, such as artificial intelligence. Do I use communication to evangelise the world? Or am I among those recruited by the devil to spread falsehood and immorality through social media?

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, make me an agent of unity, love and holiness in your church. 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. (7th Sunday of Easter. Bible Study: Acts 1:15-17,20-26, Ps. 103:1-2,11-12,19-20, 1 John 4:11-16, John 17:11-19).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

PRAYER: AN ANTIDOTE FOR SORROW

Saturday, 11 May 2024. Readings: Acts 18:23-28, Ps. 47:2-3,8-10, John 16:23-28

“Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask anything of the Father, he will give it to you in my name.” (John 16:23)

Today’s Gospel passage continues Jesus’ sermon on the world’s hatred of his disciples. (John 15:18ff). As disciples of Jesus, we are at the receiving end of the continuous hatred that brought Jesus Christ to the Cross of Calvary. However, Jesus has not left us alone to suffer; the Holy Spirit is there to help us. (Cf. John 16:7). Hence, Jesus describes Him as a Counsellor, the Spirit of truth who inspires and reveals things that Jesus could not say during His time on earth and even those things that will happen in the future. (Cf. John 16:13).

Apart from the Holy Spirit’s comfort, Jesus (in yesterday’s Gospel passage) mentions another great help to surviving the world’s hatred: Knowing that our sorrow will not last forever. Pain is easier to bear when we can read its meaning. A woman would “gladly” endure labour pains because she knows she would soon have a child. The joy of seeing her child makes her forget the pain. Regardless of what the world throws at us, let us focus on the crown of glory that awaits us.

Today, Jesus reveals the third strategy for dealing with the world’s hatred: Prayer. We often sing: “Prayer is the key. Prayer is the Key. Prayer is the master key. Jesus started with prayer and ended with prayer. Prayer is the master key.” Prayer is the key to unlocking happiness amid the troubles that must come our way if we obey God’s commandments in a world that prefers darkness to light. Let us now consider the lessons contained in today’s readings:

1. Prayer is The Antidote For Sorrow: In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says: “Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.” (John 16:23-24). Prayer brings joy; it is both spiritual and therapeutic. Prayer helps to offload your burdens, calm your nerves and relieve your fears. Appreciate prayer because it can bring you the things you desire and because prayer (itself) is good for you. If a problem shared is a problem half-solved, prayer is sharing your problems with the only person who can truly solve them.

2. We Must Pray Because God is King of All the Earth: Today’s Psalm (like yesterday) sings: “God is King of All the Earth.” When Jesus speaks of the world’s hatred, one is tempted to wonder if the world belongs to the devil. After all, good people tend to die early, but wicked people continue living, worsening their evil deeds daily. However, the truth is that God is still king of all the earth. This is why prayer remains a key for us Christians. By surrendering your problems to God, who is bigger than the world and in control of everything, you know that your troubles will be over shortly.

3. Don’t Just Pray; Be Expectant: The hardest part of prayer is not uttering the words; it is trusting that God has heard you and is working something out for you. Many people pray, but only a few pray well; that is, pray with expectation. Prayer should excite you like a child whose parents have just promised something. Often, even while praying, we hear this voice in our hearts that questions the rationality of our prayer. It reminds us of instances when we prayed for something but did not get it, but it never reminds us of the times when prayer worked wonders. Next time you hear this negative voice, repeat Jesus’ words in today's Gospel passage: “Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask anything of the Father in my name, he will give it to you.” (John 16:23)

4. As Missionaries, We Must Be Prayerful and Humble (Open to Instructions): Today's First Reading is about a Jew named Apollos. He was eloquent and well-versed in the scriptures even though he was not properly catechised. Priscilla and Aquila took him aside and “expounded to him the way of God more accurately.” With this, Apollos helped other believers at Ahaia and confuted the Jews in public concerning Jesus Christ. Like Apollos, there are many so-called preachers today who think they know the Bible but go about confusing and even misleading their audience. To be a mechanic, you need years of training under the guidance of an experienced mechanic. This goes for all other professions. Some people wake up one morning and say, “God has spoken to me.” Next thing, they have started a church. God told you to start a church, but did He say you should not go for training? Why do you think you don’t need to learn from anyone else or subject yourself to supervision?

Let us pray: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill our hearts, and enkindle in us your Sacred Fire. 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 6th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 18:23-28, Ps. 47:2-3,8-10, John 16:23-28).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

NOTHING LASTS FOREVER; SORROW TURNS INTO JOY

Thursday, 9 May 2024. Readings: Acts 18:9-18, Ps. 47:2-7, John 16:20-23

“Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy.” (John 16:20)

Life is in a state of constant motion. These days, I am fascinated by the speed of time. One minute, it is morning, and before one blinks, it is night. I sit down to write the day’s reflection, and when I think I have only sat for a few minutes, I realise I have just spent the last three hours pondering the points in the readings. The book of Ecclesiastes was correct when it stated that: “For everything, there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven… a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance…” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-4). Regardless of the season, you are in today; it will not last forever. In today’s first reading, Paul enjoyed a period of peace for a year and six months, but when Gallio became proconsul of Achaia, the Jews made a united attack on him. Nothing lasts, as Jesus tells us in today’s Gospel passage; even if we face sorrow, it will turn into joy. This brings us to our lessons today:

1. Consider Your Sufferings for God as Labour Pains: A few days ago, Jesus told us: “If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world; therefore the world hates you.” (John 15:19). As long as we let our light shine as God’s children, we cannot escape moments of persecution. In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus likens these persecutions to the pains a woman feels when she is about to give birth: “When a woman is in travail, she has sorrow because her hour has come; but when she is delivered of the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a child is born into the world. You have sorrow now, but I will see you again; your hearts will rejoice…” (John 16:20-23). It is not easy to be a Christian in a world that has rejected God. Nevertheless, when you experience sorrow, do not give up on God because moments of joy will follow.

2. Our Hearts Remain Restless, Insatiable Until We Get Home: Just as nothing in life lasts forever, nothing on earth gives us permanent satisfaction. We are always in need of something. It appears there is a vacuum in our hearts; our desires are never met. The more we get, the more we need. Jesus tells us today: “I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. In that day, you will ask nothing of me.” (John 16:22-23). We can only experience brief moments of happiness because many things can take away our joy on earth, but no one will take away our joy when we get to heaven. Jesus says, “On that day, you will ask nothing of me.” We would not ask for anything because we would lack nothing. Whatever joy the world can give you is nothing compared to the joy of heaven.

3. Have No Fear, God is King of All The Earth: Today’s Psalm sings: “God is King of all the earth.” This statement takes into cognisance Paul’s experience in today’s First Reading. God told Paul in a vision: “Do not be afraid, but speak and do not be silent; for I am with you, and no man shall attack you to harm you; for I have many people in this city.” (Acts 18:9-10). In as much as there would be moments of pain (as Jesus said in today’s Gospel passage), God is a Good Shepherd; He will not stand idly to watch the wolf destroy the sheep under His care. Remember that God is still in charge of this world. When Paul was brought before the tribunal, he didn’t even have to utter a word. His enemies ended up fighting themselves. After this experience, Paul remained for many days before leaving that city. Paul left not because anyone drove him away but because he wanted to continue spreading the Good news. As long as your hands are clean, keep doing what is right. God will protect you.

Let us pray: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill our hearts, and enkindle in us your Sacred Fire. 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 6th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 18:9-18, Ps. 47:2-7, John 16:20-23).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

LESSONS FROM CHRIST’S ASCENSION INTO HEAVEN

Thursday, 9 May 2024. Readings: Acts 1:1-11, Ps. 47:2-3,6-9, Ephesians 4:1-13, Mark 16:15-20

“So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God.” (Mark 16:19)

Today, we commemorate the Solemnity of the Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ, a significant event that marks exactly forty days since we celebrated Easter. In today’s first reading, Luke tells us that Jesus showed Himself alive to his disciples after His resurrection through many demonstrations. “For forty days, He had continued to appear to them and tell them about the kingdom of God.” (Acts 1:3)

On the fortieth day of His resurrection, Jesus gave His disciples two important instructions: 1. Do Not Leave Jerusalem. They were to remain in Jerusalem because, within a few days, they would be baptised with the Holy Spirit (Pentecost is in a few days). 2. Do Not Worry About The Future; Instead, Focus on Spreading the Gospel. These were the last words of Jesus before His Ascension - “Go into all the world and preach the gospel.” (Mark 16:15). This is an all-important task. If we fail to preach the gospel, we have failed God. Let us now consider other lessons in today’s readings:

1. Why Did Jesus Ascend to Heaven? After His resurrection, wouldn’t it have been nice if Jesus had remained in the world with us? Why did Jesus leave us? Jesus answered these questions by saying: “Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. In my father's house, there are many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you that I would go to prepare a place for you? And when I prepare a place for you, I will come again and take you to myself; where I am, you may be also.” (John 14:1-3). In other words, Jesus ascended to show us that this world is not our final destination. Just as He has gone, we must follow when our time comes. Jesus ascended not because He no longer cares about us but because He needs to prepare rooms for us in heaven, our real home.

2. Does the Ascension of Jesus Mean He is No Longer With Us? If Jesus had not ascended, wouldn’t His physical presence be proof (and confirmation) to the world about the truth of His resurrection? Again, Jesus answered this question by saying: “I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Counselor will not come to you…. And when he comes, he will convince the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.… I have many things to say, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” (John 16:7-13). Although Jesus is no longer physically with us, Jesus remains present in the Holy Spirit. Remember that Jesus said: “I am with you always, to the close of the age.” (Matthew 28:20). Even if Jesus were still with us physically, many would still not believe, but the Holy Spirit is here to convince us.

3. Will Jesus Ever Return to Us Again in the Flesh? While the disciples stood gazing at the sky, “behold, two men stood by them in white robes, and said, ‘Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.’” (Acts 1:10-11). Jesus will come again in the flesh. Through several parables, Jesus clearly explained that He would come again. It is not for us to know when or how. Rather, we must keep busy with the task that God has entrusted us. “Be like men waiting for their master to come home from the marriage feast so that they may open to him at once when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes; truly, I say to you, he will gird himself and have them sit at the table, and he will come and serve them. If he comes in the second watch, or the third, and finds them so, blessed are those servants!” (Luke 12:36-38)

4. What Must We Do Now? St. Paul answers this question in today’s Second Reading: “Lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all lowliness and meekness, with patience, forbearing one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:1-3). When Jesus comes again, will He find me doing what He wants?

Let us pray: Grant, we pray almighty God that we, who believe that your Only Begotten Son, our Redeemer, ascended this day to the heavens, may dwell in spirit in heavenly realms. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. 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. (The Ascension of the Lord - Mass of the Day. Bible Study: Acts 1:1-11, Ps. 47:2-3,6-9, Ephesians 4:1-13, Mark 16:15-20).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

The Holy Spirit: Source of All Truth

Wednesday, 8 May 2024. Readings: Acts 17:15,22-18:1, Ps. 148:1-2,11-14, John 16:12-15

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his authority, but whatever he hears, he will speak, and he will declare to you the things to come.” (John 16:13)

We live in a world where it is extremely difficult to find honest people. We all love to be told the truth, yet we prefer telling others lies. The spirit of lies is one demon that has possessed most of our population, old and young, rich and poor alike. We fall too easily into the lying trap because we do not realise the seriousness of lies in our lives. Scammers are everywhere, so much so that even when one hears the truth, it is difficult to believe it.

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus refers to the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth – He witnesses the truth and leads us to discover the truth. In today’s First Reading, we learn that without the Holy Spirit, we cannot appreciate the truth. Paul applied philosophy to the Athenians but lost them when he mentioned the topic of resurrection. This brings us to our lessons today:

1. To Possess the Holy Spirit is To Be A Truthful Person: You cannot have the Holy Spirit in you and still tell lies. This is because telling lies is not one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Never trust anyone who tells lies; they don’t know God. If someone knows the truth and decides to twist it, that person can easily work for the devil. Jesus says: “He will glorify Me, for he will take what is mine and declare it you.” (John 16:14). The Holy Spirit glorifies Jesus - the Way, the Truth and the Life. (John 14:6). Are you in the habit of telling lies? It is time to ask the Holy Spirit’s help. You may have heard the saying: “Say the truth and shame the devil.” Lies glorify the devil because it is his nature to deceive and destroy.

2. To Possess the Holy Spirit is To Be Receptive to the Truth: Resistance to the truth (fighting people because they tell us the truth) is a clear sign of the absence of the Holy Spirit in us. The Athenians did not accept Paul because they couldn’t face the truth. They acknowledged their ignorance by making an Altar with the inscription: “To an unknown god,” but when Paul brought the truth to them, they resisted it. Sometimes, we know fully well that someone is telling us the truth, but instead of listening, we become defensive. We look for a thousand reasons to shut the person down. Nevertheless, the truth must prevail.

3. Christianity is Incomparable to Other Religions: In Acts 11:20-21, Luke reports that “Some men of Cyprus and Cyrene, on coming to Antioch, spoke to the Greeks also, proclaiming the Lord Jesus. The hand of the Lord was with them, and many became believers and turned to the Lord.” Unlike the Athenians in today’s First Reading, the Holy Spirit worked in the hearts of the Greeks at Antioch to receive the Gospel. This was also the case with Cornelius. Without the Holy Spirit working in the hearts of our listeners, our message is in vain. However, another reason for Paul’s failure was his decision to talk about Christianity as if it were one of the several shrines the Athenians built. Christianity is not one of the options available to man by which he can worship God; Christianity is the only Way.

4. The Holy Spirit Reveals the Future: Still, in today’s Gospel passage, Jesus said: “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.” (John 16:13). A part of our limitation as human beings is our inability to know the future. No one can predict tomorrow despite the latest advances in science and technology. However, as Jesus teaches, we can know the things to come through the Holy Spirit, who speaks to us in various ways. For instance, in Acts 10, Peter is tranced and indirectly shown what he needs to do in Cornelius’ house.

Let us pray: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill our hearts, and enkindle in us your Sacred Fire. 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 6th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 17:15,22-18:1, Ps. 148:1-2,11-14, John 16:12-15).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

THE HOLY SPIRIT: HELPER AND TEACHER

Tuesday, 7 May 2024. Readings: Acts 16:22-34, Ps. 138:1-3,7-8, John 16:5-11)_

“Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Counsellor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.” (John 16:7)

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus continues His lecture on the nature and work of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God present in the world today. We cannot see the Holy Spirit with our eyes, but we can see His works and events, which defy human explanation. Recall how the Holy Spirit overshadowed Mary, making her conceive without the intervention of a man. Something similar happens in today’s first reading. Paul and Silas were thrown in prison, but at night, while they were praying and singing, there was a special earthquake. The Holy Spirit is our helper; He gets things done. This brings us to our lessons today:

1. You Never Walk Alone: “If I do not go away, the Counsellor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you.” Never assume you are on your own. Learn to be conscious of God’s presence in and around you every moment. Psalm 139:7-13 reads: “Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there. If I take the wings of the morning and settle at the farthest limits of the sea, even there, your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me fast. If I say, ‘Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light around me become night,’ even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is as bright as day, for darkness is as light to you. You formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother's womb.”

2. You Are Never Alone Even When Things Do Not Go As Planned: It is easy for us to think we are alone when bad things happen to us. It is easy to forget God when faced with trouble. We sing and dance in excitement and jubilation when good things happen. We go to the Church for Thanksgiving and sing with all our hearts. However, in sad moments, we find it very hard to pray, talkless of singing praises to God. Paul and Silas teach us a very important lesson today – praise God even in bad times. How do we summon courage to praise God when it seems He failed to protect us from evil? Remember that you are not alone. The Holy Spirit is always with you; He knows why it happened this way. Trust that He knows what to do and Paise Him. Paise the Holy Spirit with all your heart.

3. Be Committed to Winning Souls for God’s Kingdom: Paul and Silas did not move an inch when the earthquake flung open prison gates. They would have left before the jailer noticed if they only wanted to escape. The Holy Spirit will help you solve all your problems, but remember to use every opportunity to spread the Good News. What is the essence of escaping prison if at least one person is not brought from darkness to light? When the jailer saw what happened, he asked Peter: “What must I do to be saved?” The same man who was cruel to Peter and Silas took them to his house, nursed their wounds and received baptism. Let this inspire you to share the Good News with others.

4. The Holy Spirit is Our Teacher: In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as one who convicts the world of three special subjects: sin, righteousness and judgement. These are subjects that the people of the world are not interested in. No one wants to hear the word “sin” (even modern-day preachers avoid it), not to mention “judgement” or “righteousness.” As a teacher, the Holy Spirit awakens our conscience. The Holy Spirit is the voice we hear when we have not lived up to expectations. Learn to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit speaking from the depths of your heart, guiding you on the right path.

Let us pray: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill our hearts, and enkindle in us your Sacred Fire. 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 6th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 16:22-34, Ps. 138:1-3,7-8, John 16:5-11).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

THE HOLY SPIRIT: EVER PRESENT HELP IN MOMENTS OF DANGER

Monday, 6 May 2024. Readings: Acts 16:11-15, Ps. 149:1-6,9, John 15:26-16:4

But when the Counsellor comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness to me; you also are witnesses.” (John 15:26-27)

Yesterday, someone asked me: “Father, why do we pray ‘Come Holy Spirit’? Don’t we have the Holy Spirit already dwelling in us?” After reflecting on this question, I realised we cannot get enough of the Holy Spirit. The fact that you have read the Bible (or know everything in it) should not stop you from reading it daily. Each time you read the bible, you gain new insights. Similarly, when we pray the “Come Holy Spirit” prayer, we ask for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. 2. We get a heightened sense of the presence of the Holy Spirit. 3. We acknowledge our need (dependence) on the Holy Spirit to live a virtuous life. 4. We express our humility, and 5. We seek the Holy Spirit’s power to transform our lives. As we continue to deepen our understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit, let us now examine some lessons in today’s readings:

1. The Holy Spirit – The Principal Agent of Evangelization: In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth who bears witness to Him. Without the Holy Spirit, we cannot know the truth about God. We cannot witness to God without first receiving the witness of the Holy Spirit. Meanwhile, even when we witness God to our fellow human beings, our success depends entirely on the Holy Spirit. In today’s first reading, we hear the story of Lydia. Luke, the author of the Acts of the Apostles, tells us that: “The Lord opened her heart to give heed to what was said by Paul.” (Acts 16:14). If the Lord does not open the heart of people to listen and accept the message, the preacher’s efforts are in vain. It is never a matter of eloquence, knowledge or diction. When we say “Come Holy Spirit”, we are not praying only for ourselves; we also pray for those we intend to minister to that the words we utter may be meaningful to them.

2. The Holy Spirit – Our Provider: Lydia pressed upon Paul and his companions to stay at her house after she was baptised. Once again, we see how the Holy Spirit works through individuals to provide whatever is needed for the mission. When Jesus sent out his disciples to preach, he warned them not to carry purses or extra tunics. He knew that God would never give you an assignment without providing everything needed. You might not know where help would come from, but you only need to trust that you are working for God, who owns everything in the universe.

3. The Holy Spirit – Our Counsellor: in today’s Gospel passage, Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as a Counsellor. The word ‘Counsellor’ can refer to a lawyer who defends a client in trouble or a therapist who advises one experiencing psychological trauma (or other related difficulties). In other words, the Holy Spirit as Counsellor is a solid helper for us as we battle to survive in a world that is not ours. A few days ago, Jesus told us that the world hates us because He has chosen us out of the world. The world cannot love us because we don’t belong to it. Today, Jesus tells us that a time will come when whoever kills us will think he is offering service to God (meaning that persecution will come from even our fellow Christians). How do we cope under these circumstances? The Holy Spirit is both our lawyer and our therapist.

Let us pray: Come O Holy Spirit, that I may give a good account of my faith by my words and the example of my life. 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 6th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 16:11-15, Ps. 149:1-6,9, John 15:26-16:4).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

TO BE FRUITFUL BRANCHES OF JESUS, WE MUST LOVE AS HE LOVED

Sunday, 5 May 2024. Readings: Acts 10:25-26,34-35,44-48, Ps. 98:1-4, 1 John 4:7-10, John 15:9-17

“Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love.” (1 John 4:7-8)

Two Sundays ago, Jesus described Himself as the Good Shepherd; without Jesus, we are like sheep without a shepherd. Last Sunday, Jesus described Himself as the Vine while we are the branches; cut off from Jesus, we can do nothing. Today, Jesus calls us His friends. We are no longer servants because Jesus has revealed His true identity to us. As friends of Jesus, we have been called and commissioned to bear fruits. In other words, it is not enough to be connected to the vine as branches; we must be fruitful and bear fruits that last. What does it mean to bear fruits for Jesus? What must we do to bear these fruits? What do we gain by bearing fruits for Jesus? How do we ensure that our fruits last? These are some of the lessons we shall learn today:

1. Christian Fruitfulness Lies in Winning Souls for God’s Kingdom.
By describing us as branches of the vine, Jesus points to our total dependence on Him and emphasises our role as carriers of the Vine’s fruits. You cannot be a true Christian without bearing fruits. You cannot be light, yet fail to shine on at least one person – bringing them out of the darkness of sin and ignorance. You cannot be salt without anyone ever getting to taste your sweetness. As Christians, we are influencers – we always attract people by our words and lifestyle, not to ourselves but to Jesus Christ.

Let us now examine our hearts: “Since I became a Christian, how many people have I won over from darkness to light? How many have completely repented of evil or the worship of false gods through me?” If your honest answer is zero, it means you are not different from that fig tree covered with leaves, but when Jesus went close to it, he found no fruits on it and in anger, Jesus cursed it. (Cf. Mark 11:13-22). However, unlike that fruitless tree, I bring you Good News today: You are not cursed; you still have all it takes to start bearing fruits. If you are unhappy about the moral decadence in society, it means God has called you. Go beyond complaining; become God’s instrument – start saving souls, start creating an army of God-fearing and upright people. Remember, it is not just about bearing fruits (quantity) but fruits that last (quality).

2. To Be Fruitful, Never Look Down on Anybody. God Has No Favourites.
In today’s First Reading, Peter visited Cornelius. This visit was not regular or casual; it was a meeting arranged by the Holy Spirit (the principal agent of evangelisation). In Acts 10, we read that Cornelius, a Centurion in the Roman Army, was a “devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms liberally to the people, and prayed constantly to God.” (Acts 10:2). So many persons are not Christians but are more qualified for heaven than many who go to Church. They are unbaptised, but by their lifestyles, they are closer to God than those who claim to be baptised and confirmed. One day, while Cornelius was praying, he saw a vision instructing him to send for Peter. This reminds us of what Jesus taught us last Sunday. A branch can only bear fruit when it is connected to the vine. You can only succeed in winning a soul when God has done His background work on the person.

As Cornelius prayed, Peter also entered a trance where he saw various animals considered unclean for food. Peter was told to “kill and eat.” When he protested, a voice said to him: “What God has cleansed, you must not call common.” (Acts 10:15). Never look down on anybody. Never call anybody “common this” or “common that” because of where they come from, their religion, nationality or background. When Peter got to Cornelius’ house, he understood the meaning of the trance: “Truly I perceive that God shows no partiality, but in every nation, anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.” (Acts 10:34-35). Peter was still speaking when he and those with him saw the Holy Spirit descend upon Cornelius and His entire household, and they spoke in tongues as the disciples did on Pentecost Day. Never look down on anybody; learn to see God in every person you encounter. We are all children of God. Today’s Psalm says: “God has shown deliverance to the nations.” God has no favourites, and as His branches, we must avoid discrimination.

3. To Be Fruitful, We Must Love (Especially Our Enemies) As Jesus Loved Us
Love is not a feeling of attraction to someone. Love is not getting close to someone because of what we hope to gain from them. Love is not the pleasantries we exchange with others when we seek to gain friends. Love is not being nice to people because they were nice to us in the past. What, then, is love? In today’s Second Reading, St. John answers: “This is Love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent his Son to be the expiation for our sins.” (1st John 4:10). Love is sacrifice. “Greater love has no man than this; that a man lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13).

In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” (John 15:12). Jesus did not say, “Love your neighbour as yourself” rather, he said, “Love one another as I have loved you.” How did Jesus love? He was kind to those who hated him. He forgave those who killed Him. Jesus asked: “For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?” (Matthew 5:46). No wonder St. John says: “He who does not love (cannot forgive) does not know God.” When we love others as Jesus loved us, we cannot but bear fruits because we would be incarnating Christ in the world.

4. God Rewards Our Fruitfulness With Answered Prayers.
Still, in today’s Gospel passage, Jesus says: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide; so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.” In other words, a connection exists between bearing fruits (winning souls for God’s kingdom) and answered prayers. When we are committed to expanding God’s kingdom, God rewards our efforts by granting our prayers. This is why the apostles recorded many great miracles, signs and wonders. As St. Mark reports: “They went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by the signs that attended it.” (Mark 16:20). Do you want God to give you whatever you are asking for? Then, do what God wants; seek His kingdom and righteousness first, and everything you ask will come to you. (Cf. Matthew 6:33).

Let us pray: Almighty, teach me to love just as you did that in love, I may truly bear fruits for 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. (6th Sunday of Easter Liturgical Colour: White. Bible Study: Acts 10:25-26,34-35,44-48, Ps. 98:1-4, 1 John 4:7-10, John 15:9-17).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

THE WORLD HATES US BECAUSE WE DON’T BELONG HERE

Saturday, 4 May 2024. Readings: Acts 16:1-10, Ps. 100:1-3,5, John 15:18-21

“If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” (John 15:19)

Today’s liturgy brings us to the end of the fifth week of Easter. On Sunday, we heard Jesus describe Himself as the Vine while we are the Branches. Without Jesus, we are like branches cut from the tree: dry, unproductive, and only good for firewood. During this week, we heard Jesus spell out the terms of abiding with him, which include keeping His commandments, loving others as He loved us, and believing in Him. Having laid out all the benefits of abiding in Him as branches of the Vine, Jesus shocks us today by teaching us that abiding in Him does not make us immune from the world’s hatred. Why does the world hate Christians? How do we respond to the world’s hatred? These are some of the points we shall discuss today.

1. Why Does The World Hate Christians? The world’s hatred is a reflection of the world’s rejection of Jesus Christ. “If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household.” (Matthew 10:24-25). The world hates Christians because they see a reflection of Christ in them. “And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil.” (John 3:19). The world prefers darkness to light. Evil is always more attractive than good. If you are not experiencing opposition from the world, it means there is nothing about you that points to Christ; you are not a threat to the kingdom of darkness because they see you as one of theirs. Jesus says in today’s Gospel passage: “If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” (John 15:19). In other words, there is something wrong if you don’t have enemies or those who hate you for being a Christian.

2. It Is Okay To Be Hated; Avoid Compromise: Faced with the world’s hatred, Christians often find themselves aligning with the world in the name of “giving to Caesar what belongs to Caesar.” Since one cannot beat them, is it not better to join them? Of course, this is why it has become hard to distinguish and identify a true Christian today. We go to church, but we are so unlike Christ. Instead of reflecting light, we have become part of the darkness. “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other...” (Matthew 6:24). You don’t have to be like everyone else. Knowing that the world would hate us, Jesus, who chose us from the world, has already prepared a way for us. Evil may be popular, but as a light, you are humanity’s last hope. You are a living bible; make a difference by being different.

3. Match Their Hatred With Love: When we hate those who hate us, we are no longer different from the world. They may leave us peacefully, but by then, we have lost the battle and given away our chance to shine our light. “You have heard it was said: ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you so that you may be children of your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:43-45). Is it possible to love those who hate us? Jesus answered this question by giving an example of his life. If Jesus died for us while we were still enemies of God (Cf. Romans 5:10), it is possible to love those who hate us. If Jesus forgave those who crucified him, it is possible to forgive anybody. If Jesus prayed for his enemies, blessing those who curse us is possible. (Cf. Matthew 5:38-39).

4. Be Attentive to the Holy Spirit: Do you feel overwhelmed with the world’s hatred? Remember, we have an advocate and a comforter – The Holy Spirit. He is our guide. In today’s first reading, the Holy Spirit played a key role in Paul’s missionary enterprise, forbidding him from entering Asia and Bithynia. By the power of the Holy Spirit, Paul saw a vision of a man calling for his help in Macedonia and took as a God directing him to that place. The message of this passage is that Paul’s success did not come from his efforts. Paul was successful because he cooperated with the Holy Spirit. As we gradually approach Pentecost, let us re-open our dialogue with the Holy Spirit, who will guide us through the world’s hatred.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, teach me to love just as you loved. 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 5th week of Eastertide. Bible Study: Acts 16:1-10, Ps. 100:1-3,5, John 15:18-21).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Saints Philip and James: Gallant Soldiers of Jesus

Friday, 3 May 2024. Readings: 1 Corinthians 15:1-8, Ps. 19:2-5, John 14:6-14

“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. If you ask me for anything in my name, I will do it.” (John 14:12-14)

As little kids, we sang: “We are soldiers. We are soldiers for the Lord. In the name of Jesus, we shall conquer.” We even made funny poses while singing but never asked ourselves what this song meant. We say we are soldiers of Christ, but we say “God forbid” the slightest discomfort for Christ’s sake. We sing about being soldiers of Christ, yet all we want is the comforts and luxuries of life. We claim to be soldiers but run from pillar to post, seeking quick answers and solutions when the going gets tough. As soldiers of Christ, let us ask ourselves: “What is my Christian faith costing me?”

Today, we celebrate two gallant soldiers of Christ, Saints Philip and James, who fought not with guns and armoured tanks but with righteous deeds and the proclamation of the Gospel. Philip and James fought to defend the Christian Faith to their last breath, willingly offering their lives for the convictions they held dearly. Philip was born at Bethsaida and started as a disciple of John the Baptist. After the Baptist’s death, he followed Christ. James, the son of Alphaeus, is called “James the Less” to distinguish him from James, the son of Zebedee. James, “the brother of the Lord”, ruled the Church at Jerusalem, wrote an epistle, led an austere life and converted many Jews to the Faith. He was crowned with martyrdom in the year 62. In reflecting on their lives, some lessons stand out:

1. God Does Not Call The Qualified: God does not call those who think they are perfect; rather, He qualifies those who make themselves available. None of the twelve apostles was perfect. Nevertheless, they were willing to ask questions, willing to learn, and willing to grow. For instance, in today’s Gospel passage, Philip was not ashamed of revealing his ignorance and confusion. He said: “Lord, show us the Father, and then we shall be satisfied.” Jesus asked Philip: “Have I been with you so long, and yet you do not know me?” Like all other apostles, Philip ate and drank with Jesus for three years but did not know Jesus. In Matthew 16, at Caesarea Philippi, when Jesus asked the twelve about his identity, only Peter answered correctly, yet Jesus acknowledged that flesh and blood had not revealed that to him. You don’t have to be perfect to say “Yes” to God’s call. All you need is an open heart and a willingness to learn.

2. Faith in God Transforms: Another shining quality of Saints Philip and James was their deep faith, expressed in their actions. Faith keeps us going regardless of the difficulties we encounter. 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). As soldiers of Christ, our greatest weapon is our faith. Believe that with God, that all things are possible. Like Philip and James, you might not be perfect, but as long as you have faith, you will do even greater works than Christ did.

3. Never Bend the Truth: In today’s first reading, St. Paul, writing to the Corinthians, asks them to hold fast to the Gospel and never bend from it. In other words, as soldiers of Christ, we must be careful of false doctrines which could mislead us. St. Paul sums up the Gospel in very simple terms: “Christ died for our sins following the scriptures, he was buried, and raised on the third day following the scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). St. Paul Paul is convinced that after the resurrection of Jesus, He appeared to people following a hierarchy of importance. First, Jesus appeared to Peter, then to the twelve, then to a group of about five thousand believers before appearing to James, and last, of all, to Paul. Never bend the truth; Jesus is alive and always ready to defend his soldiers. As we celebrate St. Philip and James today, we pray that God will continue to inspire labourers for His vineyard.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, help me to think less of myself and more of you in responding to your call. 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. (Saints Philip and James, Apostles - Feast. Bible Study: 1 Corinthians 15:1-8, Ps. 19:2-5, John 14:6-14).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu