DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

SATURDAY OF THE 21ST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Celebration: Memorial of St. Augustine of Hippo -Bishop and Doctor of the Church.

"Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; ..." (Matthew 25:21)

Every act performed by man gears toward achieving either a positive or negative goal. It becomes negative when the output does not yield any gain, and getting a sound reward affirms the act to be a positive gesture. 

In the light of this, Evangelist Matthew in today's gospel pericope reported the parable of Stewardship, where Christ used in His teaching. (cf.Matthew 25:14ff.)

Obviously, all fingers cannot be the same. For the beauty of every hand lies in an unequalness of fingers. Anything short of this unequality, the hand lost its beauty and pride.

That is why, when the Chief household shared the talents he did it according to the strength of his servants. To the first "five", the second man was he gave "two", while third received "one". The sharing formula was devoid of sentiments but according to the strength of each one which the Chief household knew before hand.(cf. Matthew 25:14ff.)

As the time for the account to be presented on his return, the first two Stewards doubled their talents leaving the third who garnished his laziness with flimsy excuses. 

To the Chief household, he commended the first two servants in a similar words saying:

"Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; ..." (Matthew 25:21).

Beloved in Christ, what will be our recommendation after this ephemeral life and sojourn on earth? How accountable are we with the talents entrusted to our care? These and many remains our point of reflection this morning. 

Finally, put in your best in whatsoever you are doing. Do it such that in it you can encounter God in humans around you. Blossom wherever you are planted. Let go envy for you can not be "all-in-all". Then accept with gracious heart the lot God has marked for you.

Peace! Be with you. 🙌

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you 

Let us pray 

Most Holy God, we are grateful to You for leading us this far. Accept we pray the homage of our lips and grant us the grace to be accountable Steward. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

FRIDAY PF THE 21ST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

"Watch at all times, praying that you may be able to stand before the Son of man." (Luke 21:36)

Today from the table of the Word, Evangelist Luke brings to our consciousness the exhortation of our Lord concerning the end of time saying:

"Watch at all times, praying that you may be able to stand before the Son of man." (Luke 21:36)

This poses a heart-touching question to us: How prepared are we to behold Him as He really is?

In the light of this that St. Paul our brother and apostle of the Gentiles in his first epistle to the Thessalonians Church admonished his disciples to walk upright, and devote themselves to Holy things instead of what will separate them from God. (cf. I Thessalonians 4:1ff.)

He further established that this act pleases God for it is His will. Calling on everyone to know how to posses his own vessel in sanctification and honour; and not in passion of lust. (cf. I Thessalonians 4:4).

Therefore, the message is loud and clear. We need to stir up our efforts in readiness to behold our Redeemer as truly as He is; and not as the five foolish virgins the gospel pericope of today make reference to.(cf.Matthew 25:1-13). 

Finally, let us get our lamps ready to lighten our daily paths, so that darkness of sin will not engulf us. For we do not know the very moment the Master will return.

Peace! Be with you. 🙌

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you 🙏

Let us pray 

Almighty and everlasting God, Yours is the earth and its fullness.  We thank You for the many blessings we receive from You. We beseech Thee O! Lord to give us the grace to be watchful and ever ready to receive You on Your coming. Through Christ our Lord.  Amen.

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

THURSDAY OF THE 21ST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Luminous 

"Then teach us to number our days, that we may gain wisdom of heart. Turn back, O Lord! How long? Show pity to your servants." (Psalm 90:12-13)

Dearest friend (s) in Christ, may the blessing and love of God be with you all. Amen.

In the heat of our busy schedule most often, we tend to forget the "great day of days"  in our lives. The end of the begining of another life. And that is: our last days. 

Have you ever imagined how you lie in a decorated bed, that four to six hefty men assisting to carry? Or better still you are being dressed with what you can't imagine. To crown it all people file pass you including that man you vowed in anger that you will never forgive.

These and many more experiences become the subject matter of our reflection on this day. It is about that day, which always grips us with undeniable fear.

Undoubtedly, it is obvious that the scenario of this kind gave rise to the Psalmist who with all sincerity asked God thus:

"Then teach us to number our days, that we may gain wisdom of heart. Turn back, O Lord! How long? Show pity to your servants." (Psalm 90:12-13)

Before this request, he had come to terms with the reality of the end of man saying:

"You turn man back to dust, and say: 'Return, O children of men.' To your eyes a thousand years are like yesterday, come and gone, or like a watch in the night." (Psalm 90:3-4)

Beloved in Christ, death remains an enigma and foes unto men. In my thoughtful thinking I come to a conclusion that: "Despite the multiple occurences of death, it still remains a stranger to humanity."

In view of this, let forgive others, let go of the past and above all get set and be ready to answer whenever we are being called as Christ asked us:

"Watch, therefore, and be ready; the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect." (Matthew 24:42.44)

Peace! Be with you 🙌

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you 

Let us pray 🙏

Eternal God, we thank You for Your faithfulness and love. We beseech Thee O! Lord to give us the grace to number our days on earth so that me may gain wisdom beyond this present and passing life. Through Christ our Lord.  Amen.

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE 21ST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Glorious 

“We worked night and day, while we preached to you the Gospel of God.”   (1 Thessalonians 2:9)

The Church’s teaching on dignity of human labour states explicitly clear that man has the reposibility to toil for his daily bread and with great attention to his dignity as a human person. 

In the light of this that Pope St. John Paul II in his Encyclical Laborem Exercens avers:  "The Church is convinced that work is a fundamental of man's existence on earth." (Laborem Exercens no. 4)

Be that as it may, today St. Paul in his first epistle to the Church in Thesolonica reminded us of this call to duty.

"You remember our labour and toil, brethren; we worked night and day, that we might not burden any of you, while we preached to you the gospel of God." (1 Thessalonians 2:9)

For him, he observed with sadness the laziness of the Thessalonians and then exhorted them to pick up their implements and be useful to themselves.

However, the Scripture commanded us to till the earth for our sustenance (cf. Genesis 2:15) And the Book of Proverbs give the consequence of laziness which will result in hunger and poverty. (cf. Proverbs 28:19)

The pertinent questions are: What is your attitude towards work? Do you find joy in what you are doing? 

In our daily toil, we suppose to find God in it. Every work place supposed to be a temple where we encounter God. As a teacher teach so as to inform the ignorant mind, a carpenter fashion out of God's creation (wood) into what gives comfort to man,as a driver provides means of movement to the travellers with all about of diligence. etc. In doing this, we become the Steward of creation.

Finally, beloved in Christ let our daily toil gears toward the glory of God and for the sustenance of human society. 

Peace! Be with you 🙌

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you 🙏

Let us pray 

Almighty and eternal God, we are grateful to You for the wonders of creation. Grant us we pray, that our daily toil may be sown for eternal harvest. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE 21ST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

"O Lord, you search me and you know me." (Psalm 139:1)

The true essence of God lies in His tripartite attributes of Omniscience, Omnipresence and Omnipotence. 

Thus making man's thought open before Him. He discerns the secret thought of man, and draws a conclusion before man could even understands what he is thinking.

In our today's reflection the Psalmist re-echoes the Omniscience nature of God in prayer, indicating the place of man before God saying:

"O LORD, you search me and you know me. You yourself know my resting and my rising; you discern my thoughts from afar. You mark when I walk or lie down; you know all my ways through and through." (Psalm 139:1-3)

In light of this scenario, we are nothing but pencil in God's hand as Wale Adenuga the producer of the famous soap opera "Super Story"  says.

Obviously, most often we forget our nakedness before God. We think we can hide in the dark forgetting that He is light Himself who dispels the darkest night.

We sit and plan for the downfall of others not knowing that God has a better plan for the victim. 

Beloved in Christ, let us be aware of our nothingness and emptiness before God. Let these Words find a place in our hearts so that we may acknowledge God as the beginning and end of everything.  In recognising this fact, we will be careful in our thoughts, words and actions. 

Peace! Be with you.

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you 🙌

Let us pray 🙏

Merciful Lord, thank Your for Your faithfulness and love. We are nothing outside you. Accept the homage of our lips and grant us the grace to acknowledge Your ever abiding presence among us, as all knowing and powerful God. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

SATURDAY OF THE 20TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

"He who is greatest among you shall be your servant; whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." (Matthew 23:11-12)

One of the most difficult tasks entrusted to man is that of service. Service? Many will ask. How can service be a demanding task? It is because, it is all about self-emptiness, walking out of comfort for those in distress, seeking for water to quench the thirst of others when feeling thirsty as well, etc.

However,  a true leadership service does not in any way brings about a clear difference between master and servant. It provokes in the servant that sense of belonging and peace of mind.

Sometimes when people are called to service as leading figure, they suddenly forget that it is a call to service and not Lording as masters over the people put under their charge. Some see it as an avenue to enrich themselves, to be worshiped as demigods and the front seat is their birth right. Absolutely, "No". 

That is why we being instructed in a simple language thus: 

"He who is greatest among you shall be your servant; whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." (Matthew 23:11-12)

Today, we are being called to a life of humility decked with docility as St. Pius X whom we celebrate today was known for. Whose papacy made a clear difference, and was known for a positive sterling leadership style in the Church.

On this account, our leadership style should be characterised with that of Christ the "Master of all masters."

Finally, flock entrusted to our care should not feel like slaves waiting for the appointed time to be freed. They should feel warm embrace and touch of the master; as Christ exhorts us in the parable of a good shepherd. 

PEACE! Be with you. 

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you 🙌

Let us pray 🙏

Most merciful God, we thank You for the gift of Your creation.  Accept the homage of our lips and grant us the spirit of humility. Grant us we pray, the grace to be good Steward so that on the last day we make accurate account of all that you entrusted to our care. Through Christ our Lord. Amen 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

FRIDAY OF THE 20TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

"You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbour as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the law and the prophets."

(Matthew 22:37-40)

Dearest friend(s) in Christ Jesus, peace and love of God be upon you. 

In the Holy Scripture our Lord gave a clear understanding of who a neighbour is. In a common parlance a neighbour is one living close to us, sitting by our side, one who is often seen around us. But in our Lord's teaching as contained in the parable of the good Samaritan (cf. Luke 10:25-37). A neighbour refers to every man we come across devoid of their relationship with us.

Our today'sreflectionbringsour mind to the very essenceof God that is "Love". Here Christ admonished us to love our God with all that is in us; as well as our neighbours as we love ourselves. This is the summary of the decalogue (the ten commandments) (cf. Exodus 20:1) He further stated that these two commandments are the foundation which the law and prophets depend.

In our society today, the language of love seems to be relegated to the background as a result of it abuses. We profess what we don't mean, we end up in words than action. 

Most often we give the cost or condition for love to be in existence, outside this determing factor there is no love. 

Far from what Christ is telling us today. The term "love" as used by Christ here is an expression of self-giving, letting go comfort for the comfort of others, forgiving hurts that marred us and giving out when we know for certain there is no return. 

Beloved in Christ, the pertinent question that beg for answer in our minds now is:

How much do we love?  Until we can answer thus: "we love beyond measure". 

There and then that we will come to terms that we have fulfilled the essence of our existence , that is to love God, to serve God and to be with Him on the last day.

Peace! Be with you.

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you 🙌

Let us pray 🙏

Almighty and everlasting God, you are Love and source of our existence.  Grant that we pray, may this same love compel and lead us to the deeper understanding of loving one another in sincerity and truth. Through Christ our Lord.  Amen. 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

THURSDAY OF THE 20TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Luminous 

 "For many are called, but few are chosen." (Matthew 22:14)

Truly, many are called but few are chosen. But why the few? When many were called. This provokes the thought of many these days with the maxim: "the unbalance state of life" raising many "whys" in our minds. 

Take for instance, in a class of 50 students, the end of the term result will indicate those who were serious with their studies, (may be 35 students) and the rest 15 only came in as participants. Be that as it may, the determinant factor here is: being focused and knowing what one wants.

However, each and everyone one of us must have been given opportunity in one field or the other. Some to be in academia, craftsmanship, or any other field of endeavour; almost with equal opportunities. But you will see some excelling while others are still struggling to get to the crescendo of their profession.

The simple logic here is, most at times we take alot of things for granted. We tend to be satisfied with the present situation, not minding the opportunities ahead of us. 

This scenario is applicable to our various spiritual life. We are comfortable by just being called "Christians" and nothing more than that. Yes, we were all called to be Christians through baptism, but the fact is: There is more than that.

Beloved in Christ, as the Scripture has reminded us today that:

 "For many are called, but few are chosen." (Matthew 22:14)

Let us work hard to excel not only in our profession but in the spiritual realm. So that when the final account will be taken we may be counted among the few to be rewarded.

Let us not relax because we are Christians by name, we need to move ahead and live beyond being called Christians and be "Christ-like" in thoughts, words and actions. In doing this, the reward for the few will certainly be our lots. 

Finally, let us be on the Know that God does not desire our condemnation but rejoices over our repentance.  Let us therefore put in our best and leave the rest to God in prayer. 

Peace! Be with you 🙌

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you 

Let us pray 

Eternal Word, thank You for Your daily Word which sustains and gives us hope. We pray O! Lord May our daily struggle be sown for eternal harvest so that we may be counted among the elect. Through Christ our Lord. Amen 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE 20TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B) 

Mystery of the day: Glorious 

"... you go into the vineyard too." (Matthew 20:7)

Man by nature remains an insatiable being right from onset. This act of vice is the product of envy and greediness.  That is "not being contented" with what we have, where and who we are. 

In today's reflection Evangelist Matthew in the gospel pericope presents before us the mind of God towards His children devoid of every obstacle ranging from race, sex, culture, status, time and space. He does not consider the situation or how people look at you, but does His will as it pleases Him.

But why then are we begrudge of God’s generosity over others? In His Words today  He Divinely Whispers: 

"... you go into the vineyard too." (Matthew 20:7)

Yes, the owner of the vineyard declares.

This portrays His plan which is beyond human imagination. For He sees not as man sees but as "a merciful father."  He blesses, protects and provides without a cost. 

Has anyone ever complained that God has blessed you with good health? Considering the number of death each day. Behold the beautiful family! He has blessed you with. How much work did you do to get it? The beautiful sunrise you are enjoying, do you think you labour for it or your lineage deserved it? Come to think of the many goodies God has blessed us with, then you will know that He loves us so much.

Why then do we complain about blessings of others, as if we ourselves are worthy than those whom God has decided out of His magnanimity to bless. 

Be contented, for it is the best of all riches. Rejoice over others' successes, fame and glory so that you will as well receive standing ovation when your glory shall be revealed among men.

Peace! Be with you.

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you. 

Let us pray.

Dearest Lord. we thank You for Your love care and concern upon us. We are grateful to You for the break of the dawn and the many gifts we have received. Grant us we pray the courage and grace to rejoice over the success of others. So that we may be blessed according to the riches of Your glory. We ask this through Christ our Lord.  Amen

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE 20TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

And the LORD said to him, "But I will be with you, and you shall smite the Midianites as one man." (Judges 6:16)

God has been with man right from time immemorial despite oddities of life. He is always there to strengthen us even amidst hopeless situation. That is why I once said: "In solitude we find the finger of God in every situation".

This was the similar case with Gideon when God called Him to save the Isrealites from the Midianites. Gideon at the first instance was not ready to go for this salvific mission, having looked at the lowly state of his lineage and how powerless he was compared to the strength of the Midianites. But God assured him by saying: 

"But I will be with you, and you shall smite the Midianites as one man." (Judges 6:16)

Indeed, this is the Lord we serve, He is always and ever ready to surprise us when we must have lost hope. 

Looking at the situation of the Israelites at this point, Gideon was afraid; the same fear that grips us when we find ourselves at the Cross road of life.

Beloved in Christ, today God address these beautiful words of assurance to you and your household: "I will be with you till you smite that rocky situation in your life" O! What a message of hope to the hopeless, a Whisper of comfort to a despairing soul and a living drink to those who are thirsty. 

Dearest friend(s) in Christ do not allow the present situation to weigh you down rather let it be a stepping stone to reach the crescendo of your dream. Be not afraid by asking how do I get there? Be rest assured, He will certainly do marvels beyond human telling. 

Peace! Be with you 🙌

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you. 

Let us pray 🙏

All powerful and everlasting God, we thank You for the many blessings we receive from You. As the dawn of this day sets, may Your love among us be renewed and the grace to overcome fear be driven away from us. Through Christ our Lord.  Amen 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE 20TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

“If you would be perfect, sell what you possess, and you will have treasure in heaven.” (Matthew 19:21)

Man by nature treasures what gives him or her joy. The fullness of it comes with that which he laboured and not the one he found or being given on a platter of gold. 

In the light of this, he values this with all that is in him. And each time he remembers that he has this or that, smiles naturally comes out of him. He feels secure with his treasure and on the top of the world for having such a value. What an emptiness of human imagination!

To redress this myopic thought in us, Evangelist Mathew recorded the words of our Lord arising from His encounter with the young rich man who desires perfection in life saying: 

“If you would be perfect, sell what you possess, and you will have treasure in heaven.” (Matthew 19:21).

The Scripture further said, the young man left sorrowfully for he was a man with great wealth. (cf. Matthew 19:16-22).

In the light of this, dearest in Christ we must "detach from someof these treasures" and get ourselves "attached to the Heavely realities." 

We  need to see God in creation so as to appreciate the essence of our existence.  Let that which you treasures most lead you to the Heavenly realities.  

Peace! Be with you.

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you. 

Let us pray

Eternal Word, our satisfaction is in You and only You alone. Sustain us in Your richness, and may we never depart from the source of our existence. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

    

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

SATURDAY OF THE 19TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

"...choose this day whom you will serve,... but as for me and my house, we will serve  the LORD." (Joshua 24:15)

One of the fascinating facts about human life is longing for treasure. Having found it he will value it with all that is in him.

Beloved in Christ, the pertinent question is: Where lies our treasure(s)? If it is on earth, there our minds will be. If it is in Heaven, we will be longing to get there.

Sadly, we find ourselves desiring for what does not last the day.

Today, Joshua having recounted the goodness of the Lord upon the Israelites, how God fed them, brought them out of captivity, gave them a greener pasture. He then asked them to choose whom they are to serve.

"...choose this day whom you will serve,... but as for me and my house, we will serve  the LORD." (Joshua 24:15)

 This was the last part of the covenant renewal he made to God with Israelites at Shechem before he died.

And so, it was the signing of edict, affirmation and certification made, not to depart from the right path but hold on to God in every situation.  

Obviously, out of our continuous longing for comfort we abandon God the creator of all things and channel our interest to what He created. Thus, giving the right of place to material things in place of God. 

Such of those acts are:

* Taking time to watch a favourite programme, in expense of saying our prayers.

* Meditating on where we kept our treasures such as our bank transactions, business deals, friendship instead of heavenly realities which suppose to occupy our minds.

* Rushing out of Church before dismissal to catch up with friends at a party.

* Going to Church when we are less busy, instead of making it a priority despite tightly schedule programmes. 

And so long the list...

Dearest in the Lord, let us know when to close the page of materialism and open the chapter for Godly things. When we do this, thought about God will be our priority in our daily diary. May the Lord give us the grace to be focused on Him and Him alone. 

Peace! Be with you.

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you. 

Let us pray

Merciful God, we are eternally grateful to You for the love, care and concern. The wonders of Your creation amazed us. We pray Thee O! LORD to strengthen us in our frailty and grant us the grace to see You in creation. Through Christ our Lord.  Amen. 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

FRIDAY OF THE 19TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

"....it was not by your sword or by your bow." (Joshua 24:12-13)

Man by nature is insatiable. There is this longing for comfort, serenity, fame, and indepenedncy. 

However, in his comfort zone he sees himself as "all and all" suddenly forgets the power higher than him. Some will be beclouded with intelligence which God blesses them to contribute to the society, or prowess in speech which is meant for encouragement and building up of human society. But with all these favours from God, some men consider themselves independent of the supreme power of God. 

It is on this note that I wish to take our minds back to God’s renewal of covenant with Israelites at Shechem. (cf. Joshua 24:1ff.) 

For the Isrealites they thought of being the most powerful nation not paying recourse to God who out of His covenant with their Patriarchs led them out of Egypt. 

They felt it was within their power. And today, at Shechem God reminded them:

"... it was not by your sword or by your bow. I gave you a land on which you had not laboured, and cities which you had not built, and you dwell therein; you eat the fruit of vineyards and oliveyards which you did not plant." ( Joshua 24:1-13)

This solemn covenant at Shechem geared towards keeping the flame of unity among them alive and fidelity to God during dark days of their lives following the death of Joshua which is recounted in the Book of Judges.

In the same vein, trusting in the unfathomable mercy of God that through Him all things come to be, gives us this inner assurance that:

"....it was not by our sword or by our bow." (cf. Joshua 24:12-13)

Therefore, let us put our trust in God, try our best and leave the rest to Him. For His mercy endures for ever. (cf. Psalm 136:1b).

Peace! Be with you. 

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you. 

Let us pray 

Almighty and merciful God, Yours is the earth and its fullness. We give you glory for who we are, what we have and where we are. For through You and not by our power that we have gotten all these. Accept O! Lord we pray the homage of our lips and daily service to You. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

THURSDAY OF THE 19TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

"This day I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all..." (Joshua 3:7)

Obviously, every man desires greatness, to be noticed, to dine and wine with Kings and Queens, to be adorned with crowns of pure gold and so long the list. 

But amidst this search and self-seeking fame and glory, we often forget where we came from and where we are going to. Believing in our intelligence, prowess and power which cannot see the light of the day. 

A good number think that human connection without God will pave way to reach the crescendo of fame, not knowing that whosoever we may think we are, where ever we find ourselves, and what ever we may call our own all belong to God - the great provider.

Today, God spoke to Joshua in a language we all desire to be exhorted with saying: 

"This day I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all..." (Joshua 3:7).

Yes! It is the Lord who speaks. His Words always come to fulfilment come what may. In this passage He said "This day..." A phrase which portrays long awaiting situation, a moment of great anticipation in the life of Joshua as he was preparing to lead the Isrealites. A time longing for, which He fulfilled. 

God then made it clear that the doubt which engulfed his mind will be cleared. Not to fear any longer for as He was with Moses, He will be with Him.

 "The LORD said to Joshua, "This day I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with you." (Joshua 3:7-8)

And to us, beloved friends in Christ Jesus, we are not to be perturbed about any situation. God remains God in every affair of life. While some receive the manifestation of God's grace in the early hour of the day, others in the midday, I assure you, yours will certainly come to pass. That God of 5:59 pm is the present day God. He did it before, He is doing it even now and He will do it again. Be still and know that He is God.

He will certainly take you out from the dunghill and set you above your peers. In the presence of your enemies, He will prepare a banquet of sumptuous dinner and they will eat to their fill. (cf. I Samuel 2:8 ; Psalm 23:1ff.)

Peace! Be with you.

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you 

Let us pray

Gracious God, we continue to thank and praise your name. We know our praises add nothing to your greatness rather it gives us more blessings. Accept we pray thee O! Lord our daily sacrifice and grant us a place of honour in this life and beyond. Through Christ our Lord.  Amen 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE 19TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

 "It is the LORD who goes before you." (Deuteronomy 31:8a)

May the unlimited blessings of our God be upon you and your household. Amen 

Dearest in Christ, in our reflection this morning we key into Moses' prayer upon Joshua aa the first reading of today contains.

Obviously, this prayer came in as a source of encouragement to Joshua due to anxiety and uncertainty that seems to engulfed him. 

Moses then prayed thus:

 "It is the LORD who goes before you; he will be with you, he will not fail you or forsake you; do not fear or be dismayed." (Deuteronomy 31:8)

These similar words are the desire of many these days, when some situations or events surrounding us seems to swallow us, the disappointment in life, betrayal of trust, heart break, ill-health, etc. become order of the day. 

There is no better place to seek refuge than in the hands of God. We are being exhort to believe and trust in God as the only source of our strength. For with God we can go further than our expectations. 

Let us trust only in God then anxiety will be written off our minds. Rejoice and be glad for He is always with us. 

Peace be with you! 

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you 

Let us pray 

Almighty and eternal God, we glorify Your great name for being there for us in and out of season. Sustain us we pray O! Lord and bless our inheritance. Through Christ our Lord.  Amen 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE 19TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

"...what does the LORD your God require of you?" (Deuteronomy 10:12)

Dearest friend(s) in Christ, good morning and best wishes to you on this first working day. I hope this message will meet you and your household in good state. 

Today, from the table of the Word, we are being asked a pertinent question: 

"...what does the LORD your God require of you?" (Deuteronomy 10:12)

It is obvious that in our busy schedule we find it a bit difficult to ask ourselves this question set before us by the author of the Book of Deuteronomy.  

Some may have in their response(s), to worship Him, praise Him, work for Hi etc.; while others may have a diverse answer(s) to the question.

But to you beloved in Christ, "What does He require of you?"  Think deep and ponder on the mysteries surrounding our existence. How we came to be where we are, the source of sustenance of this existence, the many traps we escaped, the many accidents we scaled through and the rest of ill-events that might have claimed us. 

Thinking aloud in this direction will give us "a ready-made answer" to this question. How can we reciprocate this kind gesture of our God? What is the cost price if we are to pay for it? What do we have in exchange for this unfathomable love of God? 

Absolutely nothing. But to put us on the right path, we are being exhort to:

"...to fear the LORD, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD with all our hearts and with all our souls, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD, which He command us this day for our good?" (cf. Deuteronomy 10:12ff.)

Therefore, this clarion call is for us to make haste to retreat from our ways that may go contrary to these detects. Let us turn to God with love, fear and a desire to walk in a right path. 

Peace be with you!

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you 

Let us pray

Eternal Word we are thankful to You for the gift of our existence. We pray O! Lord for grace to understand our duties and obligations to You. Sustain us in Your love and Mercy. Through Christ our Lord.  Amen 

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

SATURDAY OF THE 18TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (B)

Mystery of the day: Joyful

"...why could we not drive out the spirit?" (Matthew 17:19)

Beloved in Christ, good morning and I trust these words will meet you well. Having gone through thick and thin of this week, indeed we owe God thanksgiving in return for His unfathomable love and Mercy. Look around, you will certainly come to terms that "Jesus is Lord indeed!"

There is nothing so pathetic and discouraging as one who after spending five to seven years as an apprentice in any field of learning but could not withstand the storm of practicalising the theoretical aspect of it.

So disheartening in the sense that, the years of his learning will be questioned. Sampford in the theme of today's reflection.  

"...why could we not drive out the spirit?" (Matthew 17:19)

This came as a result of Christ's disciples inability to cure the child as Evangelist Matthew reported in today's gospel pericope (cf. Matthew 17:14ff.) 

Christ felt bad for their lack of faith and then exhorts them to increase their faith at least to the size of a mustard seed. For if this is done, then absolutely nothing will be impossible.

"Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you." (Matthew 17:20)

For us the hearer of these words, how big is our faith? I mean faith in God and not in man. Does it reach a measuring value? Can't it be quantify? These and many are questions that beg for answers considering our spiritual life. 

In some cases in our spiritual journey we doubt even ourselves, we give room for fear to grip our minds; then leaving God at the point of second choice on our scale of preference. 

So bad indeed! We must not get it aright always for God to be whom we want Him to be, some ugly situations is not to maim us but to strengthen our human weakness. For in this that the grace of God will be manifested in our lives. 

Peace be with you!

Fada PIUSRALPH prays for you. 

Let us pray 

Most loving God, we are grateful to You for the wonders of our being. We acknowledge our weaknesses before You. We beg Thee O! Lord to increase our faith that we may see You in every situation.  Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

EPISTLE ON MY 3RD PRIESTLY ORDINATION ANNIVERSARY

Dearest friends in Christ, 

Verse 1. It is with utmost joy, happiness and gratitude to God almighty whom we live, move and have our beings that I send this warm greeting to you all.

Unworthy as I am, I was privileged to be ordained to the Sacred Priesthood for mission on this day, three years ago (Saturday, August 4, 2018). With my ministry motto “You too go into the vineyard…” (Matthew 20:4) which my souvenir carries, I count myself as the least among the many He called to serve in His vineyard. He (God) as St. Paul – the apostle of the Gentiles will say:

 “God doesn’t call the qualified, He qualifies the called.” (I Corinthians 1:27-29). On this note, I testify to God’s amazing Grace which is sufficient to me the “unworthy servant.”

Verse 2. Today, being the 4th day in the 8th month in the year of our Lord Jesus Christ – 2021, I join the rest of my brothers to celebrate one thousand and ninety-five days and nights (3years of God’s abundance favour) as a Catholic Priest – a Leather anniversary.

Verse 3. The number “THREE” is so significant that the Holy Scripture pays greater attention to it both in the Old and New Testaments. Three is a number of harmony, of God’s presence and completeness. Most significant events in the Bible were accompanied either by number “3” or “7”. It is connected to the Holy Trinity, to the three Patriarchs before the flood – Abel, Enoch and Noah, and three Patriarchs after the flood – Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The Christian or New Testament has a total of 27 books, which by calculation is the multiplication of number 3 into 3 places (3 x 3x 3), and this number is largely connected to the Eternal High Priest – Jesus Christ.

Verse 4. In the course of the Transfiguration event, three personalities had the experience: Peter, James and John. Christ prayed three times before his arrest, he was put on the cross at the third hour of the day, and breathed last at the ninth hour which when converted is 3:00pm. God’s real essence is described in three forms: The Omniscience, Omnipresence and Omnipotence. While the Book of Revelation further described Him in a triple phrase construction as “Which is, and which was and which is to come” (cf. Revelation 1:4). This Trinitarian figure, gives power to actions, harmonizes it and makes it complete.

Verse 5. However, these three years journey of faith has been full of joy as well as pains. Amidst all these, God has been faithful. His love upon me goes beyond calculation. 

I can testify without reservation that within these years I have enjoyed the goodness of the Lord. No matter the ugly events that punctuated the joyful moments, I still give Him the glory.

Verse 6. Having seen myself standing in the awesome glory of His majesty day and night, kindly invoke with me,

 I pray you the mercy of God almighty, that He who has been pleased to number me, though unworthy, among the few and chosen to serve in the capacity of a “wounded healer” that I may serve without charge and count nothing as a loss, and to behold the vision of awaiting glory from the Great Master at last.

PRAYER ON MY 3RD PRIESTLY ORDINATION ANNIVERSARY

Eternal Word, I thank you for the gift of the sacred priesthood. I count myself unworthy to behold this great honour which even Angels are not privileged to enjoy. I bless your name for the gift of life and good health I have enjoyed all these years, the beautiful things that falls on my path, ugly events that break my heart and the greater things in wait for me. I desire no other name, glory or fame than that of a humble priest and your prophet with the mandate to lead your children to the Truth in sincerity of heart. May You O! Lord speak, teach and heal through me. May the divine fragrance go with me wherever I go. Do not deny the grace of a dignified priest, O! Lord I pray. Bless my priestly ministry with docility of heart adorned with Your Word, and sustain it with your directive.

Bless my Congregation for given me the identity and platform to be your servant, to my formators grant them their humble heart desires, those who assisted me in one way or the other to answer this call may my daily offering to you serves as the source of their support. To my family, friends and well-wishers, I pray upon them your blessings, and all your children may they enjoy the serenity of your presence. Keep in mind your daughter – Mrs. MaryHelen Sam (my mum) whom it pleases You to call her back Yourself, grant her and all the faithful departed peaceful repose in your abode. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

JESUS, I TRUST IN YOU!

I remain your priest,

REV. FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

(August 4, Memorial of St. John Mary Vianney – Patron of the arish Priest)