Do Not Fear, Only Believe

Sunday, 30 June 2024. Readings: Wisdom 1:13-15,2:23-24, Ps. 30:2,4-6,11-13, 2 Corinthians 8:7,9,13-15, Mark 5:21-43

“Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further? … Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, ‘Do not fear, only believe.’” (Mark 5:35-36)

Last Sunday, we read from Mark’s Gospel how Jesus told his disciples to enter a boat and cross to the other side, knowing that evening had come and that there would be a storm that night. Jesus, being such a wonderful teacher, wanted his disciples to have this experience to strengthen their faith in the face of very scary situations. In the panic, the disciples were surprised to see Jesus sleeping on the cushion, and when they woke Him, He said: “Why are you afraid? Have you no faith?” In today’s Gospel passage, we hear something very similar from the lips of Jesus; this time, He addressed the synagogue official whose daughter was feared dead: “Do not fear, only believe.” This brings us to our lessons for today:

1. Fear And Faith Do Not Mix
While fear is about expecting the worst, faith is expecting the best. When the disciples woke Jesus, they voiced their fear: “Teacher, do you not care if we perish?” (Mark 4:38). If you want to know the extent of your faith, examine the kinds of words you use when speaking about your situation. The men from Jarius’ house said: “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” (Mark 5:35). This statement represents the fear that there are certain things God cannot do and the fear that prayers do not work in certain situations. Change how you speak about your situation. Apply faith in your speech. “Do not fear. Only believe.”

2. Fear Keeps Us In The Crowd; Faith Makes Us Stand Out
Fear is more popular than faith. All through the Gospels, those who had personal encounters with Jesus were those whose faith was strong enough to bring them out of the crowd. A great crowd gathered around Jesus, yet out of this great crowd, one man, Jairus, got Jesus’ attention when he fell at Jesus’ feet (prostrating himself in worship) while imploring Jesus to cure his little daughter. Again, while a great crowd was pressing around Jesus, one woman said to herself: “If I touch even his garments, I shall be made well.” (Mark 5:28). Her faith was so strong that power left Jesus instantly. Jesus asked: “Who touched me?” The disciples did not understand the question because there were hundreds of people around Jesus. Anyone could have touched Him, but not everyone had the faith to draw a miracle from Him. The church is packed full. Everyone is touching Jesus, but only those who touch with faith will go home with miracles.

3. Fear destroys us, and Faith heals and uplifts us.
After the woman had owned up about her action, Jesus said something very beautiful to her: “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace and be healed of your disease.” (Mark 5:34). This teaches us that Faith, by itself is capable of making us well. On the other hand, fear, which hides under the guise of negativity, only worsens our situation. When Jesus went to his hometown, the people there were so negatively minded towards Him that “He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid his hands upon a few sick people and healed them. And He marvelled because of their unbelief.” (Mark 6:5-6)

4. Avoid Negative (Faithless) People
Upon getting to Jarius’ house, Jesus drove out those weeping loudly and speaking negatively. Mark tells us that Jesus put them all outside. The book of Hebrews tells us, “Without faith, it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6). If God is not pleased with us like these faithless sympathisers, He will push us outside. You cannot be friends with everybody. You cannot live your life on the opinions of everyone you meet. You must select those you listen to and ensure you push out discouraging voices as Jesus did. Those who laughed at Jesus when he said the girl was only sleeping did not come to sympathise; rather, they came to mock Jarius. Jesus put them to shame. Negative people delight in seeing you go down; they pretend to sympathise but are happy that things are not well with you. You don’t need such people. Clear your inner space and welcome Jesus by creating daily time for personal prayer and reflection. The healing only happened when Jesus was alone with the child and her parents.

5. Fear Makes Us Stingy and Self-Centred; Faith Makes Us Generous
In today’s second reading, St. Paul admonishes the Corinthians: “Now as you excel in everything, your abundance at present should supply their want…” (2 Corinthians 8:7-14). Generosity is a product of faith. We give because we believe that God will provide our needs and that, as Our shepherd, He will not let us lack. We give to others because we know that by so doing, we are giving to Jesus, who will ask us on the last day: “When I was hungry, did you give me food?” We give because we trust God. The widow at Zarephath was gathering sticks to make the last morsel of bread for her and her son, but with faith, she made some for Elijah. Her jar of meal did not run out, and her oil was never used. (1 Kings 17:8-15).

6. God Takes No Delight in the Death of the Living
Today’s first reading says: “God did not make death, and He does not delight in the death of the living.” In other words, it is not God’s will to see us sick, suffering or dying. God made us enjoy the best of what this life offers. Just as Jesus was merciful to Jarius, Jesus always gives a listening ear when we pray in moments of sickness and pain. Do not fear; only believe. Expect the best when you pray. Last Sunday, the disciples questioned: “Who then is this that even the winds obey him?” Today, they ask: “Who then is this that even death would release someone he had taken already?” Do not let your troubles make you doubt God’s power. That same Jesus who spoke to the winds and calmed the sea, who healed the woman with the issue of blood and raised Jarius’ daughter from death, is here right now. Call on Him, and He will answer.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, increase our faith, save us from faithlessness and negativity, and strengthen our prayer life so that our words may not contradict our beliefs. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (13th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Wisdom 1:13-15,2:23-24, Ps. 30:2,4-6,11-13, 2 Corinthians 8:7,9,13-15, Mark 5:21-43).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Celebrating The Apostles Peter and Paul; Pillars of the Church

Saturday, 29 June 2024. Readings: Acts 12:1-11, Ps. 34:2-9, 2 Timothy 4:6-8,17-18, Matthew 16:13-19

“I have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

Today, we remember St. Peter and St. Paul, the greatest names in the church’s early history. In our Gospel passage today, we see that Peter was the one to whom Jesus entrusted the keys of the kingdom of heaven as the visible head of the Church. Meanwhile, Paul was the one Jesus arrested on the way to Damascus, making him a great apostle to the Gentile world.

- While Peter represents tradition, authority, and unity, Paul represents grace, mercy, and humanity. St. Paul says today, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” These words underlie the nature of the Christian life, which is both a fight and a race.

- The Christian life is a fight against the flesh and its craving for sin, against the forces of darkness, against worldliness, and against whatever makes us reject Christ. To win this fight against principalities and powers. St. Paul recommends that we put on the whole armour of God, which includes truth, righteousness as a breastplate, the gospel of peace, faith as a shield, salvation as a helmet, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:12-17).

- The Christian life is also a race that requires constant training, dedication, and commitment. As St. Paul says, “Do you not know that in a race, all the runners compete, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we, an imperishable wreath. Well, I do not run aimlessly or box as one beating the air, but I pommel my body and subdue it lest I be disqualified after preaching to others.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27)

- Today, we celebrate the ultimate victory of the Apostles for their efforts to keep the faith despite their struggles. Herod arrested Peter, intending to bring him to trial to make fun of him publicly, but the Angel of God set him free that night. Even if he would eventually die for the sake of the Gospel, this incident proves that when we suffer for the sake of righteousness, we are never alone.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, as we celebrate the two great men who fought gallantly to lay the foundation of your church on earth, help us to follow in their footsteps and win the race before us. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles. Bible Study: Acts 12:1-11, Ps. 34:2-9, 2 Timothy 4:6-8,17-18, Matthew 16:13-19).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Trust in God Only

Friday, 28 June 2024. Readings: 2 Kings 25:1-12, Ps. 137:1-6, Matthew 8:1-4

“Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” (Matthew 8:2)

While today’s first reading tells the sad tale of King Nebuchadnezzar’s capture of Jerusalem, our Gospel passage presents a comforting story of God’s mercy and love in healing the leper. What lessons do these readings convey?

- Do not approach God with a sense of entitlement. Humble yourself when you pray: The leper pleaded: “If you will (if you want to), you can make me clean.” Was this Zedekiah’s attitude in today’s first reading? Rather than go to God like King Hezekiah, Zedekiah tried to escape from the city at night.

- Place your trust in God and not in people. Another mistake Hezekiah made was assuming that his army would protect him. “The army of the Chaldeans pursued the king and overtook him in the plains of Jericho, and all his army was scattered from him.” (2 Kings 25:5). People tend to disappoint when we need them. This is why we must seek protection from God.

- Never forget God when your life is rosy. The psalmist sings: “Let my tongue cleave to my mouth if I remember you not.” The question is – why did they forget God in the first place? Why did they worship false gods? Like the Israelites, we are fond of asking, “Where is God?” in crisis, but while enjoying peace and success, we say: “Who is God?” Whenever we forget God and start trusting in ourselves (our connections, riches, security mechanisms, etc.), God shows us that we are dust.

- Notably, the miracle in today’s Gospel passage happened as soon as Jesus came down from the mountain. Going through the entire Gospels, we find this pattern: first, the Word, then the miracles. Listening to Jesus preach fired up the leper’s faith. There is great power in God’s word. We cannot survive without it. This is why Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that comes out of God’s mouth.”

- Allow yourself to be touched by Jesus. Jesus said to the leper, “Of course I want to! Be cured!” It was taboo to touch a leper, but by so doing, Jesus took his leprosy upon himself. This is exactly what Jesus does for us. Isaiah says: “He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that made us whole, and with his stripes, we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5). How do we allow Jesus to touch us? By keeping His commandments and walking along the path He chose for us. To be touched by Jesus, we must move from hearers to doers of God.

- Today, we remember St. Irenaeus. He was born in Smyrna, Asia Minor (now Izmir, Turkey), and emigrated to Lyons, France, where he eventually became the bishop. It is not known for certain whether he was martyred or died a natural death. Whenever we take up a Bible, we touch Irenaeus’s work, for he played a decisive role in fixing the canon of the New Testament. He was one of those who selected which book would be placed in the Bible and which would not. The Bible did not fall from heaven as a complete book.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, touch us from the depths of our spirits and let your healing power flow. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint Irenaeus, Bishop, Martyr. Bible Study: 2 Kings 25:1-12, Ps. 137:1-6, Matthew 8:1-4).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Doing God’s Will is Better Than Pretence

Thursday, 27 June 2024. Readings: 2 Kings 24:8-17, Ps. 79:1-5,8-9, Matthew 7:21-29

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21)

The words of Jesus in today’s Gospel passage are quite blunt and direct. Yesterday, we heard Jesus say: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” (Matthew 7:15). As a follow-up to this warning, Jesus, in today’s Gospel passage declares: “Not everyone who says ‘Lord, Lord’ will enter heaven?” Who is Jesus referring to in this passage? Firstly, Jesus speaks to us, the prayer warriors, preachers, apostles, evangelists, etc., who prophesy, speak in tongues, cast out demons, and so on but are wolves in sheep’s clothing. Secondly, Jesus addresses everyone who hears God’s words and fails to practice them. How can we avoid being kicked out from heaven on the last day?

- Practice what you preach. This is the best form of preaching and the only way to preach without being indicted by your words. For preaching in His Name, God will give us a more severe judgement because we have a greater advantage in hearing God’s word than others. “That servant who knew his master’s will but did not make ready or act according to his will shall receive a severe beating. But he who did not know and did what deserved a beating shall receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much is given, of him will much be required; and of him to whom men commit much they will demand the more.” (Luke 12:47-48).

- Learn to preach to yourself. Whenever you proclaim God’s word, imagine yourself in the front pew. If God’s word does not move you, it won’t move anyone else to repentance. “Why do you see the speck in your brother’s eye but do not notice the log in your eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take out the speck in your eye,’ when you do not see the log in your eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck in your brother’s eye. (Luke 6:41-42).

- Patronize the products you sell. A man selling handkerchiefs approached a woman in her vehicle on a sunny afternoon. There was heavy traffic, and the air was humid. “Buy my handkerchief, ma,” he pleaded. “I am not buying because your handkerchief is not good,” she said. He laughed and said: “Just try it and see, it will take away all your sweat.” “Of course, but why are you still sweating?” she said. The problem with Christianity is that we have too many vendors but very few consumers. Many Christians are convinced about the truth of the Gospel, in theory, but practically deny it by their actions. I was preaching somewhere, and a woman in the congregation shouted: “Father, tell them! Yes. Tell them,” Why do we believe the Gospel is for “them” and not for me?

- Solidify your foundation; repent from shallow Christianity. “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house upon the rock.” (Matthew 7:24). In other words, doing God’s word gives you the stamina to face trials and difficulties just as a solid foundation protects a house from collapse. Many Christians approach God with an entitlement mindset; they are only concerned with what they can get from God. When they are not getting what they think they deserve, they revert to their old unchristian ways. You may shout: “Amen. I receive it” to God’s blessings, but you cannot receive heaven if you are not a doer of God’s words. The word of God is not for our entertainment. Today, preachers are more concerned about making people feel good than preparing them for heaven.

- Today’s First Reading demonstrates the message in the Gospel passage. Jehoiachin knew God’s words, but he failed to practice them. Like many Christians who lack a solid foundation, Jehoiachin wanted God’s protection, provision and blessings but was unwilling to do what God commanded. “Everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house upon the sand, and the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell; and great was the fall of it.” (Matthew 7:26-27). A few days ago, we read about King Hezekiah. When Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, sent a threatening letter to him, Hezekiah took the letter to God’s house and prayed. That night, Sennacherib lost one hundred and eighty-five thousand men. Hezekiah fought and won the battle on his knees. When Jehoiachin faced a similar threat (when the winds blew and beat against his house), he promptly surrendered himself to Nebuchadnezzar, who took him prisoner alongside all the able-bodied men and women to become slaves. Great was the fall of Jehoiachin.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, give us the grace of authenticity in our worship. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

*Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Thursday of week 12 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 2 Kings 24:8-17, Ps. 79:1-5,8-9, Matthew 7:21-29).*

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

By Their Fruits, You Shall Know Them

Wednesday, 26 June 2024. Readings: 2 Kings 22:8-13,23:1-3, Ps. 119:33-37,40, Matthew 7:15-20

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” (Matthew 7:15)

The difference between a good tree and a bad one is not their shape, size, age, or colour. We can only tell a good tree from a bad one by tasting its fruits. A tree may appear very healthy, but there is a problem if it bears rotten fruits. The same goes for people, especially those who preside at God’s altar. What lessons can we learn from the phenomenon of false prophets:

- Actions speak louder than words. We are not who we claim to be (titles, positions, job descriptions, etc.). We are what we do (i.e., the fruits we bear). If a tree is good, it will only bear good fruits regardless of whoever comes to collect its fruit. Jesus said: “Beware of practicing righteousness (piety) before men to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:1). This was the problem with the scribes and Pharisees whom Jesus described as “whitewashed tombs.” (cf. Matthew 23:27).

- To emphasize how dangerous a false prophet is, Jesus, in today’s Gospel passage, refers to them as “ravenous wolves.” Running from a known enemy is easier than one who pretends to be your friend. A false prophet destroys the church from within. No one can serve two masters. I am either a good shepherd or a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

- Jesus, in His wisdom, knew that as long as the church exists, there will always be a “Judas Iscariot” among its apostles. False prophets are like the weeds sown among the wheat; it is difficult to tell the difference, and in an attempt to pull out the weeds, one may also pull out the wheat. By saying, “Beware of false prophets,” Jesus wants us to be on guard and to exercise discernment. It is not all that glitters that is gold. On the last day, many would come before God, claiming to have worked miracles in His name, and He would say: “I do not know where you come from; depart from me, all you workers of iniquity!” (Luke 13:27).

- Conversely, do not throw out the baby with the bath water. Even a broken instrument can sometimes be useful. For instance, Jesus said: “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice.” (Matthew 23:2-3). Given the excesses of false prophets in Nigeria, I sympathize with those who condemn Christianity. Some people have torn the bible and set it ablaze on social media in reaction to their experience with fake prophets. No wonder Jesus was very emphatic about the scandal. “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung round his neck and he were thrown into the sea.” (Mark 9:42).

- In today’s First Reading, the Bible (“Book of the Law” as it was known then) was discovered while the workers restored the temple. It was a moment of revelation for the king and the people. They realized that God had warned them through the prophets, whom they ignored, and that their present problems resulted from neglecting God’s words. As much as we must be on guard against false prophets, there are consequences for ignoring the genuine prophets sent from God. There are bad clergymen and women, but God will hold us responsible if we ignore the good ones.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, free us from self-deception and pretence. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Wednesday of week 12 in Ordinary Time, Priest. Bible Study: 2 Kings 22:8-13, 23:1-3, Ps. 119:33-37,40, Matthew 7:15-20).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

The Narrow Door of Faith

Readings: 2 Kings 19:9-11,14-21,31-36, Ps. 48:2-4,10-11, Matthew 7:6,12-14

“For the gate is narrow and the way is hard, that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” (Matthew 7:14)

Today’s readings contain many practical lessons on pride, faith, prayer and relationships. King Sennacherib, like Goliath, challenged God by sending a threatening letter to Hezekiah: “Do not let your God on whom you rely deceive you by promising that Jerusalem will not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria. Behold, you have heard what the kings of Assyria have done to all lands, destroying them utterly. And shall you be delivered?” (2 Kings 19:10-11). This brings us to our lessons today:

- Avoid pride; never trust in human power. Senacherib’s fall began with pride. Having defeated many nations, he felt he was unstoppable with his men and machines. History is filled with examples of people who boasted of their strength and the power of their inventions, only to regret it later. The fact that you have been successful in the past does not give you the right to challenge God. You may not believe in the power of prayers or the possibility of divine intervention but do not insult those who still believe in God.

- Hezekiah, like David, displayed great faith in God. When he read the letter, he didn’t panic because he knew what God could do. He took the letter from the messengers, went up to the house of the Lord, spread it before the Lord, and prayed: “So now, O Lord our God, save us, I beseech thee, from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that thou, O Lord, art God alone.” (2 Kings 19:19).. What would I do if I was in a similar situation? Would I even remember to pray?

- King Senacherib’s threat can be likened to the waves that beat the boat while the disciples crossed the sea at night. (cf. Mark 4:35-41). For a moment, the disciples forgot that Jesus was with them in the boat. They ran from pillar to post, expecting the worst to happen. Whether we like it or not, challenges (storms of life) are inevitable. In such moments, remember that you are not alone: “Even the hairs of your head are numbered, do not be afraid of those who can kill the body but fear Him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Cf. Matthew 10:28,30). Surrender your fears to God and let Him fight for you.

- After praying, expect the best possible outcome. Do not threaten anyone. The best response to an enemy is silence. This is the point Jesus makes in today’s Gospel passage: “Do not give dogs what is holy; and do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.” (Matthew 7:6). Hezekiah did not exchange words with Sannerchrib. There is no need to argue or fight with those who do not believe in God. You don’t tell people what God can do; you allow them to experience God. When Sennacherib woke up the next morning and saw that one hundred and eighty-five thousand soldiers were dead, he did not need anyone to tell him that God was not someone he could challenge. With great shame, he retreated into exile to the land of Nineveh.

- Do not make the mistake of Sennacherib. No matter how powerful you are, be good to people. You may be on top today but do not know what tomorrow holds. Treat others as you would like to be treated if you were in their shoes. When someone begs from you, remember that you are also a beggar before God. Jesus says: “Whatever you wish that men would do to you, do so to them; for this is the law and the prophets.” (Matthew 7:12). Be kind to others not because they deserve it but because you expect kindness if you were in their shoes. Of course, this is not an easy thing to do.

- There is nothing easy about living like Christ, yet this is our calling. “The gate is narrow, and the way is hard, leading to salvation.” In another passage, Jesus said: “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake, he will save it.” (Luke 9:23-24). Letting your light shine in a world that loves darkness is like swimming against the tide. Embrace the difficult choice of doing what is right, even if it is unpopular. If you are threatened for doing what is right, trust in God like Hezekiah did. God knows how to fight for his children.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, teach me to call upon you with deep faith and trust when I am afraid. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Tuesday of week 12 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 2 Kings 19:9-11,14-21,31-36, Ps. 48:2-4,10-11, Matthew 7:6,12-14).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

John the Baptist and the Rest of Us

Monday, 24 June 2024. Readings: Isaiah 49:1-6, Ps. 139:1-3,13-15, Acts 13:22-26, Luke 1:57-66,80

“The child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day he appeared publicly to Israel.” (Luke 1:80)

Today is Saint John the Baptist’s birthday. Do you know it is exactly six months to Christmas Day? We can tell it is John the Baptist’s birthday because while announcing Jesus’ birth to Mary, Angel Gabriel declared: “Behold, your kinswoman Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” (Luke 1:36-37). In the church’s liturgical calendar, John the Baptist is one of the few saints whose birthdays are celebrated. This is because John the Baptist’s birth and life contains a lot of significant lessons. Let us now highlight some of these lessons.

- John the Baptist’s life teaches us that with God, nothing is impossible. Here is a child whose mother was declared barren and made a laughing stock by her neighbours. If God delays your blessing, he wants to do something that others will hear and say: “Only God can do this.” It is not too late for you if Elizabeth was blessed in old age.

- In John the Baptist, we learn that no human life comes into existence randomly. God does the selection, arrangement, and planning. We existed in God’s mind even before we were formed in our mother’s womb. Psalm 139:13 says: “For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother's womb.” God already had a plan for John the Baptist before his birth, so God sent Angel Gabriel to his Father, Zechariah. The prophet Isaiah also relates this in our first reading: “The Lord called me from the womb, from the body of my mother he named my name.” (Isaiah 49:1).

- Names are not merely means of identification; they are spiritual. What did Angel Gabriel tell Zechariah when He appeared in the temple? “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer is heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.” (Luke 1:13). You shall call his name John. This would not have been part of the message if names were unimportant. Names are very powerful. In his book, “Long Walk to Freedom”, Nelson Mandela wrote that the greatest gift he received from his father was the gift of his name. Your name has a way of shaping your life.

- When naming your child, ensure you choose a meaningful name. Do not pick a name because it is popular or sounds good in the ear. Our Gospel passage today records the naming ceremony of John the Baptist. The family members planned to call him Zechariah, after his father. Why? They thought he would be a replica of his father; they wanted him to continue where his father stopped. They had good intentions, but it would amount to disobeying God’s instruction about the child if they had given him that name.

- Zachariah could not talk, so they gave him a writing tablet. Would he bow to pressure by saying the child should be called Zechariah according to the mind of his kinsmen? Would he give in to pride by insisting on the name Zechariah so that his name would continue to be heard even after his death? It was a great test for him. In the end, Zechariah did what was right; he wrote the name John as instructed by Angel Gabriel. He passed the test. And to reward him, God restored his power of speech. Imagine what would have happened if he had not obeyed?

- Children are not merely a continuation of their parents’ lives. Every child deserves their name; they have a destiny that may not necessarily align with their parents. Zechariah sang praises to God when his speech was restored. He repented from complaining and doubting. Like Zechariah, learn to praise God even when things appear very difficult. Zechariah waited for so many years, and at some point, he became bittered; he continued his priestly duties but no longer believed in God. He never knew that God was planning something huge for him.

- The people wondered: “What will this child turn out to be?” This is the same question we should ask when life forms in the womb. You do not know what that baby will become tomorrow. If you are planning to abort an unborn baby, make sure you seek permission from the baby first, and make sure you also check the baby’s future. My point is: Abortion is wrong in every ramification. You have no right to kill just because the baby is too small to defend itself. If you do not want a child, do not engage in any activity that can lead to other activities that culminate in pregnancy.

- Our second reading sums up John the Baptist's life. He fulfilled his destiny, prepared the way for Jesus, and drew people’s attention to the Messiah. People thought he was the Messiah when he became very popular, but he clearly declared, “I am not him. No, but after me, one is coming, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to untie.” John the Baptist’s life is a textbook on humility.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, increase my respect for the life of the unborn. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (The Birthday of Saint John the Baptist. Bible Study: Isaiah 49:1-6, Ps. 139:1-3,13-15, Acts 13:22-26, Luke 1:57-66,80).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

God Never Sleeps: He Never Forsakes Us.

Readings: Job 38:1,8-1, Ps. 107:23-26,28-32, Mark 4:35-41

“Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” (Mark 4:40)

Last Sunday, we learned that ordinary time is a season of growth. In today’s readings, we learn more about how we are to overcome challenges and obstacles to achieving spiritual growth. Let us now consider the lessons contained in today’s readings:

1. “On that day, when EVENING had come . . .”
Why do fishermen prefer to go and catch fish at night? It is a moment of calmness and peace. In the same way, Satan tempts us the most when things are calm; when you have just passed an exam, when you have just received an answer to your prayer, when you suddenly hit the jackpot in business, etc.; these are evening moments in the life of Christians, moments when the desire to pray is no longer there, moments when we crave relaxation. Evening moments are times when we sleep spiritually.

Watch out for evening moments in your life. Last Sunday, Jesus told the parable of the mustard seed that was the smallest of all the seeds but became the biggest of all the shrubs, and when it had grown large branches, the birds of the air (that were not there during its moments of struggle) came to rest under its large branches. In your evening moment, you will have many friends who will come to take refuge in your success. Be on guard, lest you fall asleep spiritually and suffer defeat.

2. Jesus said to his disciples, “Let us GO ACROSS TO THE OTHER SIDE…”
As much as evening is a time for relaxation (temptations), it is also the time that God prefers to lift a soul to a higher spiritual level. No wonder Jesus often spent whole nights in prayer. (Cf. Luke 6:12). What do you do in the evening when the atmosphere is calm and quiet? Do you enter the boat with Jesus to cross to the other side? Do you spare some time to say your prayers? Don’t be like the disciples of Jesus who dozed off when He wanted them to watch and pray. (Cf. Matthew 26:40-46)

Jesus knew it was evening already, and there would be a serious storm that night, yet He insisted on crossing to the other side. Why? God allows calamity in our lives because we grow spiritually through trials (difficult moments). As someone once said: “I asked for strength, and God gave me difficulties to strengthen me. I asked for wisdom, and God gave me problems to solve. I asked for courage, and God gave me dangers to overcome. I asked for love, and God gave me troubled people to help.” Jesus wanted his disciples to cross the sea that night to teach them they could completely rely on God regardless of their troubles.

Beyond being a geographical location, “the other side” is a metaphor for a life of deeper trust and commitment to God. When God wants you to advance in your faith, He allows you to embark on a difficult journey where you will encounter a storm. For instance, when God was ready for Saul, he allowed him to embark on that journey to Damascus. Saul left Jerusalem as a Jew determined to suppress Christianity, but he entered Damascus as a s Christian determined to spread the faith. The other side is the new version of yourself after a storm. In today’s Second Reading, St. Paul explains: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold the new has come.”

3. “And A GREAT STORM OF WIND AROSE, and the waves beat into the boat…”
A great storm emerged as the disciples sailed quietly and peacefully to the other side. They would never have agreed to enter the boat if they had known that such a storm would come. The beauty of life is that God does not allow us to know what will happen tomorrow. If you knew tomorrow, you would never have enjoyed today. Out of the blue, we encounter storms that evoke feelings of helplessness, confusion, and panic.

Today’s First Reading reminds us of Job. Nothing prepared him for the storm he faced. In one day, he lost everything he owned, including his children, and before you knew it, he was afflicted with sickness in his skin. Storms are inevitable; they are like promotional exams we must pass to move to a higher class. Whether our storms are physical or spiritual, trust that God will never permit storms we cannot handle. What you fear most eventually becomes what you are most grateful for. Storms are not funny when they come but prove that God truly loves us. As St. Paul says: “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28).

4. “But Jesus was ASLEEP on the cushion…”
The army of Israel looked at Goliath and thought he was too big to be defeated, but David looked at God and concluded that Goliath was too small for God. When we focus on our storms, God appears small in our eyes; we begin to think that our prayers are not working or that God is asleep. While the disciples panicked, they assumed Jesus was asleep. They didn’t know that Jesus was testing them. God never sleeps. The problem is our lack of faith. Regardless of the storms you face, stay calm – do not run from Church to Church or from prophet to prophet like Jesus’ disciples.

Amid the commotion and panic, one of Jesus’ disciples remembered that Jesus was with them in the boat. Amid your storms, never forget Jesus is with you in your boat. In other words, when you suffer, Jesus suffers with you. Jesus is not a bad shepherd who runs when the sheep are in danger; He is a good shepherd who lays down His life for His Sheep. As the Psalmist says: “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me.” (Psalm 23:4).

When I think of all the problems facing us in Nigeria today, I am tempted to expect the worst, but then, I become relaxed when I remember that Jesus is with us. To those who have lost faith, Jesus is sleeping and should not be disturbed. I know that Jesus is not asleep. I know that going to Him is not a waste of time. Even if we cannot see it, Jesus is doing something for this country. My faith helps me to expect a better country. See how God responded to Job in today’s First Reading: “Who shut in the sea with doors, when it burst forth from the womb” (Job 38:8). What made you think I was asleep?

5. He said to them, “Why are you afraid? HAVE YOU NO FAITH?”
This question that Jesus asked his disciples is one that we must sincerely ask ourselves today. “Why am I afraid?” “Where is my faith?” Storms are moments of learning for us. They teach us more about our faith than any catechism or Bible study class. If you have never been through a storm, you will not understand when someone says God is all-powerful. That day, Jesus’ disciples learnt that:

_One: Jesus is God; all power belongs to Him (Cf. Matthew 28:18)._ By speaking to the storm, Jesus reminded them of God the Father, who spoke the world into creation, and it obeyed. Jesus used this experience to open the eyes of his disciples to His Divinity as He did with Peter, James, and John at the Transfiguration. The disciples got the message when they asked themselves: “Who is this, that even the winds and sea obey Him?”

_Two: We should not be afraid when Jesus is in the same boat with us._ Fear is something natural to us. It is an impulse built into our psyche. Nevertheless, in moments of fear, we should ask ourselves: “Is Jesus in the same boat with me?” That is, “am I walking in the light of Christ?” The disciples should have known there was no way the boat would sink since Jesus was there. Where Jesus is present, nothing spoils, but when we are not on the same boat as Jesus (when we are walking in sin and disobeying His commands), we are on our own! The couple at Cana needed not to be afraid because they were wise enough to invite Jesus and his mother to their wedding. (Cf. John 2:1-11). There can be no disgrace for you when Jesus is riding with you.

Finally, our psalmist this morning says: “Give thanks to the Lord for He is good, for His mercies endure forever.” Brothers and sisters, let us learn always to give thanks to God. Even when things are not working, God’s mercies never cease. God never sleeps.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, increase our trust in you, strengthen our faith when storms come our way, and help us to get through our dark moments. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (12th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Job 38:1,8-1, Ps. 107:23-26,28-32, 2nd Corinthians 5:14-17, Mark 4:35-41).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

You Cannot Serve God and Mammon

Friday, 22 June 2024. Readings: 2 Chronicles 24:17-25, Ps. 89:4-5,29-34, Matthew 6:24-34

“Do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, what you shall put on.” (Matthew 6:25)

In yesterday’s Gospel passage, Jesus taught us to store treasures for ourselves in heaven, where neither moths, rust, nor thieves can break in or destroy them. You may lose money, but you can never lose kindness. The good you do for someone today will testify on your behalf before God when you stand before His judgment throne. (cf. Matthew 25:31-46). Today’s Gospel passage continues yesterday’s.

- Having taught us to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, Jesus knew His listeners were questioning his teaching: “If we don’t store treasures on earth, where are we going to get money to feed, cater for our health, pay school fees for the kids, and take care of our bills such as electricity, house rent, medicals, and so on?” In response, Jesus assures us: “Seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things shall be yours as well.” (Matthew 6:33). In other words, God knows we need earthly treasures, but our pursuit of such treasures must not replace the worship of God.

- Jesus is not saying we should not work for our daily bread. Even the Psalmist declares: “By the labour of your hands, you shall eat. You shall be happy, and it will be well with you.” (Psalm 128:2). However, in working for your daily bread, be careful not to succumb to the temptation of bowing to the devil. Jesus says: “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” (Matthew 6:24). One common example of bowing to the devil (serving mammon), is telling lies.

- Why tell a lie to make money? Why do you deceive your customers in your business place? Don’t you trust that God can provide for you? “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Consider the lilies of the field and how they grow; they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon was not arrayed like one of these in all his glory. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you?” (Matthew 6:26, 28-30). God is not so irresponsible that he doesn’t know your needs.

- The only reason we keep bowing to the devil for earthly riches is that we do not trust God. We do not believe in God’s providence. Stop being anxious about tomorrow. Entrust your life to God, “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things (all your heart’s desires) shall be yours.” (Matthew 6:33). Abram trusted God, and he obeyed the instruction to leave his fatherland to an unknown destination. He eventually became one of the wealthiest persons that ever lived. Again, when God tested him with Isaac, Abraham obeyed, and God provided a ram for the sacrifice instead. The Bible is filled with awe-inspiring stories of God’s providence. From the miraculous birth of children to barren women to the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea by the Nation of Israel when the Egyptians were chasing after them, to the miracles of Jesus in the New Testament, such as the feeding of five thousand with just five loaves and two fish, God continues to teach us a lesson in providence. Work hard to provide for your family, but know that you don’t have to do anything evil; God can provide for you.

- Today’s first reading continues the story of Joash, the young king who bit the hand that fed him. Despite all that the priest Jehoiada did to protect him from being slain by Athatliah, Joash failed to protect Zechariah, the son of Jehoida. Humans are naturally ungrateful. This is why only one leper (out of ten cured) returned to give thanks. Learn to be grateful. Another evil of King Joash was his support for the worship of idols. Under his watch, Israel served Asherim, abandoning the ways of God. Zachariah preached against idolatry, but instead of changing their ways, they killed Zachariah, who was only a voice of conscience. Nemesis caught up with Joash when the Syrian army, with only a few men, massacred down the great army of Judah. This is what becomes of us when we worship idols (when we replace God with money).

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, teach us to love you above everything else and to trust you with all our mind, heart and soul. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saturday of week 11 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 2 Chronicles 24:17-25, Ps. 89:4-5,29-34, Matthew 6:24-34).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Where Are Your Treasures? Are They Secure?

Friday, 21 June 2024. Readings: 2 Kings 11:1-4,9-18,20, Ps. 132:11-14,17-18, Matthew 6:19-23

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:19-20)

Today’s readings call for a sober reflection on the transient nature of power, riches and other resources we often consider as treasures. Athaliah rose to power after wiping out an entire family. For a brief period, she felt like a god, but when the right heir to the throne was installed, the same guards who once protected her led her to execution. Nothing is permanent on this side of eternity. Recently, a once-thriving commercial bank in Nigeria crashed, and the country’s deposit insurance cooperation announced they would refund a certain maximum amount. In other words, anyone who has deposited more than that amount has a higher chance of losing their money or its value. This is just one example of the reality Jesus brings to light in today’s Gospel passage. What is the way forward? How can we secure our treasures?

- Identify your treasures. The fact that people place value on something does not make it a treasure. It is not a treasure if it can decay (lose value or depreciate) or be stolen from you. It is not a treasure if it will not follow you to the grave (if it cannot be buried with you). Jesus warns: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal.” (Matthew 6:19). In other words, stop trying to secure what cannot be secured.

- St. John writes: “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world passes away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” (1 John 2:15-17). In other words, the treasures in heaven, which we secure through our faith and good deeds, are eternal. They are the ones that truly matter and will never fade away.

- True treasures can only be found in heaven. Jesus continues: “Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal.” (Matthew 6:20). According to Jim Reeves, “This world is not my own, and I am just passing through. My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue. The angels beckon me from heaven’s open door, and I can’t feel at home in this world anymore.” True wealth is not about how much money you have but whether you have a ticket to heaven. No wonder Jesus asked, “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?” (Mark 8:36).

- We cannot deceive ourselves regarding our treasures. “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” (Matthew 6:21). What occupies your thoughts most of the time? How often do you think of heaven? When did you last deposit in heaven’s bank by performing an act of kindness? Remember that on the last day, Jesus will say: “When I was hungry, did you give me food to eat or water to drink? Did you clothe me when you saw me naked? Did you give me shelter, visit me when I was sick or put in prison?” (cf. Matthew 25:31-46). Henceforth, do not let a day pass without making a deposit. Do something for someone. That money you keep in the bank, your gold, your silver, your beautiful cars, and all these things will fail you one day, but your act of kindness today will be remembered forever.

- Do not kill anyone for the sake of the fleeting things of this world. The story of Athaliah confirms Jesus’ statement to Peter on the night of his arrest: “Those who kill by the sword will die by the sword.” (Matthew 26:52). Jesus says that the eye is the lamp of the body. In other words, your life is determined by what you see (the things you focus on). If your eyes are sound (fix your gaze on heaven), your body will be light.

- St. Aloysius Gonzaga is a shining example of one who stored his treasures in heaven. St Aloysius was the eldest son of a Mantuan nobleman, and his father intended him to be a soldier. Aloysius renounced his birthright in favour of his brother and, at 16, became a Jesuit novice in Rome, living a life of severe austerity and penance. In 1591, a plague epidemic broke out in Rome, and the Jesuits opened a hospital to care for the sick. Aloysius, still a novice, worked hard in the hospital until he caught the plague. He died at midnight on the 20th of June with the name of Jesus on his lips.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, teach us to love you with all our heart, mind and soul and to build our treasures only in heaven. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, Religious. Bible Study: 2 Kings 11:1-4,9-18,20, Ps. 132:11-14,17-18, Matthew 6:19-23).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Prayer: The Secret of Elijah and Elisha’s Sucess

Thursday, 20 June 2024. Readings: Ecclesiasticus 48:1-15, Ps. 97:1-7, Matthew 6:7-15

“If you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:15)

Today’s first reading pays glowing tribute to two great Old Testament Prophets: Elijah and Elisha. For some days now, we have been reading about Elijah, how he defeated the prophets of Baal in a contest, how he prayed, and there was no rain in Isreal for three years, and how he was taken up into heaven in a whirlwind. “How glorious you were, O Elijah, in your wondrous deeds! And who has the right to boast which you have?” (Sirach 48:4-5).

What about Elisha, who received a double portion of Elijah’s spirit? “Nothing was too hard for him, and when he was dead, his body prophesied. As in his life he did wonders, so in death his deeds were marvellous.” (Sirach 48:13-14). As we remember the wonders of Elijah and Elisha, today’s Gospel passage reveals the secret to their greatness. Elijah and Elisha were prayer warriors; they understood the meaning of prayers and knew how to use prayer. Let us now consider some lessons about prayer as contained in today’s Gospel passage:

- Prayer is intimacy with God; it involves talking and listening to God. In other words, prayer goes beyond telling God our needs or complaining about our difficulties. To pray well, you must try to listen to what God is saying in the depths of your heart, and this is only possible when we do not talk too much. Jesus says, “In praying, do not heap up empty phrases.” Jesus warns against using prayer to attract the applause of others. “When you pray, go into your room and shut the door.” (Matthew 6:6). How do we listen to God when we try to impress others? If you find it difficult to pray when you are alone, yet you easily lead (or actively participate in) public prayers, it is a sign of deep-seated hypocrisy.

- Since prayer is an act of intimacy with God, the number of words we use does not determine the efficacy of prayer. God is moved by our faith, not by the length or volume of our prayers. “They think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them.” God hears our prayers because He loves us, not because we use many words. For instance, can you compare the length of Elijah’s prayer with that of the prophets of Baal when God sent down fire to consume the burnt offerings? Do not let anyone make you believe that you haven’t prayed unless you sweat. Ensure that every word you utter is meaningful. Feel free to speak in tongues, but remember that God also hears prayers in plain languages.

- In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus shows us that prayer, like any building, requires structure and plan. Just as a building begins with a foundation, prayer must begin with adoration (thanksgiving and worship). “Hallowed be thy name; Your Kingdom come.” Before you start asking God for your needs, you must remind yourself of all He has done in the past. By skipping this aspect of prayer, we allow room for doubts. If you do not see any reason to thank God for the past, you might soon conclude that your prayers aren’t working. At this point, you become like a person building a house without a foundation. You are asking God for something, but deep within you, you are not expecting to get what you are asking for. Do you want to kick out the spirit of doubt from your heart? Sing praises to God. As the saying goes, he who sings well prays twice

- Another important aspect of the structure required for effective prayer is repentance (contrition), which has two aspects: humility and sorrow for sins. Prayer is never an opportunity to command God; it is an exercise in humility. Postures that express humility, such as kneeling, standing, genuflecting, bowing or prostrating, are highly recommended. We may sit while meditating or reading the Bible, but postures that encourage sleep must be avoided. Given our sinful nature, we don’t deserve anything from God. We must always address God with the attitude of the prodigal son when he returns to his father. This expresses this with the phrase: “Your Will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”

- Only after asking for God’s will to be done can we proceed to ask for our daily bread. Part of this ‘daily bread’ is asking for the forgiveness of our sins, the grace to overcome temptations and our deliverance from every evil. Daily bread is not limited to food, bodily pleasures or other earthly things. Also, by ‘daily bread’, Jesus wants us to know that prayer is a daily activity and that our only concern is for today. Do not worry about yesterday or about tomorrow.

- The Lord’s Prayer contains a call to action. When we say this prayer, we promise God to forgive those who trespass against us. By failing to keep this promise, we make our prayers ineffective. Jesus told us that when we bring our gifts to the Altar but remember that someone has something against us, we should leave the gift and go for reconciliation before offering them.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, work through me as you worked through the prophet Elijah. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Thursday of week 11 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Ecclesiasticus 48:1-15, Ps. 97:1-7, Matthew 6:7-15).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Choose Your Reward; If You Seek, You Will Find

Wednesday, 19 June 2024. Readings: 2 Kings 2:1,6-14, Ps. 31:20,21,24, Matthew 6:1-6,16-18)

“And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:18)

Today’s first reading tells the story of Elijah’s ascension into heaven. It also tells us how Elisha succeeded Elijah as Israel’s prophet. A few days ago, we read how Elijah put his mantle on Elisha’s back as a sign of his Divine Call. Elisha, who quickly understood the meaning of this gesture, did not hesitate to become a student of Elijah. Like the disciples of Jesus, Elisha left everything behind (he sacrificed the oxen he was working with) to follow Elijah. In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus warns against the spirituality of hypocrisy – practising our righteousness to be seen by men. Let us now highlight some lessons contained in today’s readings:

- With God, all things are possible. The story of Elijah’s ascension tells us that when we are willing to work with God, there is no limit to what He can do with us. We also see a manifestation of God’s power when Elijah struck the Jordan with his mantle, and the water parted into two, creating a pathway on which Elijah and Elisha crossed to the other side of the river. This reminds us of how the Israelites, led by Moses, crossed the Red Sea on foot. (cf. Exodus 14:21-22).

- Elijah asked Elisha to wait while he went to the Jordan, but Elisha refused, saying: “I will not let you go.” This reminds us of what Jacob said to the Angel of God after struggling with him all night, “I will not let you go unless you bless me.” (Genesis 32:26). This tells us of Elisha’s willingness to follow. Jesus would say: “No one who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:62).

- Elijah told Elisha, “Ask what I shall do for you before I am taken from you.” And Elisha said: “I pray you, let me inherit a double share of your spirit.” (2 Kings 2:9). Elisha, like Solomon, was given a blank cheque to ask for anything. He could have asked for riches, long life or the death of his enemies, but he asked for a double share of Elijah’s spirit. When I pray, what do I ask for? Jesus said: “Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” (Luke 11:9). With God, all things are possible. If you do not seek, you will not find.

- Just as Elisha was given a blank cheque to ask for anything, God also allows us to choose our reward. This is the point Jesus makes in today’s Gospel passage. “Beware of practising your righteousness before men to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Thus, when you give alms, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and the streets, that men may praise them. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.” (Matthew 6:1-2). In other words, the choice is ours if we want to be rewarded by God or receive human applause. Let’s reflect on this and consider our actions and intentions.

- There is nothing wrong with praying, fasting or giving alms, but when we do it to attract attention from others, we get no reward from God. In his conversation with the woman at the well, Jesus said: “The hour is coming, and is now here when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such as these to worship him. God is Spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” (John 4:23-24). Do not pretend to be a saint when others watch, only to become a demon when you think no one is watching. Repent from hypocrisy; do not be a people-pleaser. What do you gain if people on earth praise you, yet you still end up in hell?

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, deepen my love for you that I may seek to please you. Free me from the desire to impress people. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Wednesday of week 11 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 2 Kings 2:1,6-14, Ps. 31:20,21,24, Matthew 6:1-6,16-18).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Love Your Enemies, Let God Repay Their Evil Deeds

Tuesday, 18 June 2024. Readings: 1 Kings 21:17-29, Ps. 51:3-6,11,16, Matthew 5:43-48

“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:44-45)

Jezebel told Ahab, “The man who refused to sell his land to you is dead. Rise, take possession of the vineyard.” Without even asking how Naboth died, Ahab ran straight to the vineyard. Ahab must have thought he could get it for free. He probably prepared his defence while heading to the vineyard: “I didn’t have a hand in the death of Naboth, I didn’t even know what my wife was planning, she stole my signature (used my seal). I only took possession of the land because no one could look after it.” It is possible to deceive people but impossible to deceive God. This brings us to today’s lessons:

- Death is not the end of our lives. The only reason Naboth refused to sell the land was because of the respect he had for his ancestors. Naboth knew their spirits lived on even though they were physically gone. Having been created in the image and likeness of God, there is something of God in us that makes us immortal. When we die, and our bodies are buried, we become spirits. While responding to the Sadducee's question about the resurrection, Jesus said that after death, we become like the Angels, and this is why we cannot marry. (cf. Mark 12:25). This means that killing a person does not end the person’s existence. Naboth was unjustly killed, but his soul cried out for vengeance. As soon as Ahab stepped foot on that land, God gave Elijah the divine signal to be the prophet.

- If someone has to cry, suffer or die before you can get what you want, you will never enjoy it. It is like receiving congratulations after cheating in an exam; you know the results are not yours, that you are a fraud. There was no way Ahab would enjoy the land peacefully since Naboth’s soul was not resting in peace. If your idea of success is seeing others perish, if you have to pull someone down to rise, if you partake in dirty politics, you are not different from Ahab and Jezebel. We once had a president in this country who said: “My ambition is not worth another person’s life.” We didn’t listen to him or appreciate the depth of this sermon, but today, we are learning our lessons the hard way.

- Do not mistake Jesus’ instruction to love our enemies as an approval of their evil deeds. God does not condone evil. The reward of sin is death. (cf. Romans 6:23). For every action, there has to be an equal and opposite reaction. Elijah told Ahab: “Thus says the Lord: ‘In the place where dogs licked up the blood of Naboth shall dogs lick your blood.’” (1 Kings 21:19). Flee from sin. Do not be carried away by your emotions and rush to do evil. Think carefully of the consequences of your actions. Also, think of their ripple effects on your children. “I will bring evil upon you; I will utterly sweep you away and will cut off from Ahab every male, bond or free, in Israel. (1 Kings 21:21). When we compare the weight of what we stand to lose from sin with what we hope to gain, the wise choice is to refrain from sin. Ahab, like David, had much land in his name, but because he couldn’t remove his eyes from what belonged to another person, he lost everything.

- God is merciful, but we must first acknowledge our faults and beg for His forgiveness to access His mercy. If Ahab tried to justify his actions or cast blame like Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, he would have died that day. There is no short supply of mercy in God’s reservoir; the problem is our refusal to ask for it – the problem is our pride. Like David, who asked for mercy and received a second chance, Ahab was spared of curses because he begged for mercy. Today, our Psalmist sings: “Have mercy, O Lord, for we have sinned.” When we are sincerely sorry for our sins, we would realise that we are not better than our so-called enemies. If we were in their shoes, we would have done worse.

- Christian perfection is the ability to forgive others sincerely. As we noted above, it is not in our place to take revenge on others; trust God to deal with those who do evil. Forgiveness is hard, yet it is the only thing that makes us different from the Gentiles. Practising sincere forgiveness is the only thing that makes us like Christ. To have a forgiving heart is to have a heart that takes no pleasure in the death of a sinner. (cf. Ezekiel 18:23). Don’t wish evil for anyone, and if you ever get the chance to retaliate for a wrong done to you, use it as an opportunity to practice forgiveness.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, give me a heart that mirrors your sacred heart, a heart that is ever ready to forgive, love, and let go of hurts. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Tuesday of week 11 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 1 Kings 21:17-29, Ps. 51:3-6, 11-16, Matthew 5:43-48).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Responding To Human Wickedness In the World

Monday, 17 June 2024. Readings: 1 Kings 21:1-16, Ps. 5:2-3,5-7, Matthew 5:38-42

“If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; and if anyone would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well!” (Matthew 5:39-40)

Today’s first reading highlights human wickedness in the world. Sometimes, people can be very heartless, inconsiderate and inhumane. Why would you kill someone just to get his property? This story reminds us of Jesus’ parable about the tenants in the vineyard. When it was time for the landowner to collect his share of the harvest, the tenants beat up his servants, killed some and treated others shamefully. When the tenants saw his son, they thought that by killing the heir, the property would become theirs. Jesus concluded the parable by saying: “He will put those wretches to a miserable death, and let out the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons.” (Matthew 21:41). However, in today’s Gospel passage, Jesus recommends the exact opposite: “Do not resist one who is evil.” (Matthew 5:39). How are we to reconcile these teachings? Let us consider the lessons in today’s readings.

- Learn to be content with what is yours. The grass will always look greener on your neighbour’s lawn. Whatever is not yours always has more appeal than what belongs to you. If you think you are missing something by not having what this person has, remember that life is not a competition. We brought nothing to this world, and, at death, we will relinquish everything. Avoid sleepless nights over things you do not have; you probably will not value them even if they become yours. Count your blessings; you are always richer than you imagine. You would never know how much God has blessed you until you develop the attitude (mindset) of gratitude.

- Everything is not about money. The story of Naboth teaches us that there are so many things that money cannot buy. Ahab was willing to pay any price for the land because he had the money. He was even willing to give another land in exchange for that piece of land, but Naboth refused to sell it because it was his ancestral inheritance. In my culture, selling the land where your ancestors are buried attracts a curse. Though they have died and their bodies have decayed, they still deserve respect. Do not think that because you have money, you can get anything. Money is limited. As it is often said, do not be so poor that all you have is money.

- Do not become a Jezebel. The name Jezebel has come to be associated with wickedness of all sorts. Meanwhile, if we sincerely search our hearts, we will discover that we all deserve the title of Jezebel. How often have I lied against (or gossiped the ills of) someone close to me because I wanted something from them that they refused to give? How often do I talk down on others out of envy? A friend of yours opens his house or buys a car, and just because you don’t know how they made it, you become a Jezebel by saying they are fraudsters. It is wicked to wish evil on others because they are successful. If you cannot rejoice with those who rejoice, God will never allow good things to come your way. Whatever you wish for anyone is what you get in abundance.

- God knows how to deal with the wicked. The fact that Jesus admonishes us to love our enemy or turn the other cheek when we are slapped does not mean that God supports wickedness. Today’s Gospel passage can be summarised as: “Do not take laws into your hands.” God is not blind. If He can see what we are thinking in our hearts, He can also see what is happening in the world. Do you wonder why God is “slow” – why He doesn’t strike down evil people even before they carry out their wicked plans? The Psalmist replies: “If you, O Lord, should mark our guilt, Lord, who could survive?” (Psalm 130:3). While you point fingers at others, remember that you are not better than those you think deserve to die.

- Hate their sins but love people. The only way to practice what Jesus teaches in today’s Gospel passage is to avoid associating people with their sins. There is a difference between “a wicked person” and “a person who does wicked things.” To describe someone by their sins is to condemn that person. No matter what this person has done, they are not beyond redemption. Lend a helping hand to the needy even if you think they don’t deserve it; you never can tell how much your kindness will generate ripple effects.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, give me the grace to live above my instincts, to forgive, to let go, and to be generous. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Monday of week 11 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 1 Kings 21:1-16, Ps. 5:2-3,5-7, Matthew 5:38-42).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu

Ordinary Time: Season of Green; Season of Growth

Sunday, 16 June 2024. Readings: Ezekiel 17:22-24, Ps. 92:2-3,13-16, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10, Mark 4:26-34

“The kingdom of God is as if someone would scatter seed on the ground, and would sleep and rise night and day, and the seed would sprout and grow, he does not know how.” (Mark 4:26-27)

Today's readings are at the heart of our current liturgical season: Ordinary Time. As you have noticed, this season's major colour of vestments and other liturgical items is green. And what does green symbolise? Vegetation, Growth, Fertility, Improvement, etc. Green is the colour of trees, grass, most plants, and the farm in general.

In today’s first reading, Ezekiel uses words related to planting and vegetation: sprig, cedar, twigs, fruit, branches, boughs, low tree, high tree, dry tree, green tree, flourish, etc. In our Gospel passage, Jesus speaks about scattering seeds, spouting and growing, the blade, the ear, the full grain, the ripe grain, harvest, the mustard seed, shrub, large branches and so on. There are indeed so many lessons contained in our readings and in our liturgical season, but we shall outline a few:

1. The Season of Ordinary Time is a season of Growth.
It would be contradictory to wear green while our relationship with God is not growing significantly. Recall how Jesus was attracted to a fig tree with leaves, only to go close and not find any young fruit sprouting. Our spiritual lives should grow and improve between now and the next liturgical season, Advent, which begins in November.

2. God’s Kingdom is not complicated or difficult to understand.
Jesus gave this parable to show that God’s kingdom operates on principles similar to what we see happen daily in our farms and gardens. God’s kingdom is alive.

3. God’s kingdom begins with a seed – the Word of God.
Outwardly, the seed may look small and insignificant, but by the time the Word is fully mature, its true nature and power are manifested. But this seed has to be planted to grow. We must let God’s Word take root in our hearts by constantly reading and meditating on the Word. As Moses admonished Joshua: “This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall have success.” (Joshua 1:8).

4. God is the one responsible for Growth.
Many have asked, “How does reading the Bible make me prosperous and successful?” Jesus tells us that a man scatters the seed on the ground and goes to sleep only to see the seed growing. How this happens, he does not know. In other words, it is not for us to know how the Word works; all we have to do is scatter the seed and let God do the rest.

5. Do not be discouraged by little beginnings.
The mustard seed is one of the smallest types of seeds, so small it became the yardstick for describing smallness. Jesus once used the mustard seed to describe how little our faith needs to be for our prayers to be effective. In this context, he used the mustard seed to describe how little the kingdom of God may appear at the beginning. We do not become saints overnight. A tree does not mature overnight. It takes time. Growth happens step by step; we may not see progress, but we know something is happening.

This is where our second reading today comes in. St. Paul says: “We walk by faith, not by sight. Therefore, we are of good courage.” Two great virtues we learn from experienced farmers are patience and hope. A farmer sets out to work long before he even sees the rains. He knows that harvest time is not the same as planting time, but in between, he waits! Farming teaches us to wait. Christians today must learn to wait for God. We walk by faith, not by sight. We may not get quick answers, but our prayers will never be vain.

6. The birds of the air only come to take shade under the branches of the mature tree.
What do these birds represent? Firstly, the world, that is, all of mankind, even unbelievers, benefit from our growth in spirit. Secondly, the evil ones. In another parable, Jesus tells us how the birds of the air come to steal the seed that falls on the path. This means we must always be on our guard because our enemy, the devil, comes to steal, kill and destroy when we have established ourselves in God. There comes a time when prayers become difficult, boring and sparse. Those are moments we must not allow these birds of the air to take away our fruits.

7. There is surely a day of harvest.
When the tree is fully grown, there is surely a time to reap its fruits. Harvest time comes at the end of our lives, when we shall all be called upon to give an account of what we did with our time on earth. There is surely a day of judgement. We are free to make everyday choices but not based on the consequences of our actions or inactions.

Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, may my time on earth be fruitful according to your will and pleasure. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (11th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Ezekiel 17:22-24, Ps. 92:2-3,13-16, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10, Mark 4:26-34).

@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu