DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (II)

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful

Saint of the day

St. Fabian

He was a Roman layman born in the year about 200 A.D. He came to the city from his farm, in the anxiety of knowing the new Pope who would be elected soon. The Pope Anteros died in the year 236 and the people including the clergy were preparing to elect a new Pope at that time. The great Church historian Eusebius said that one dove came down from the roof ceiling and sat on the head of Fabian, while the christians were assembled there to elect the pope. The lay people and the clergy thought that God had identified Fabian as a fit candidate for papacy. Therefore they elected Fabian unanimously as Pope. During that time there was no persecution of christians and the Emperor Philip was also friendly with the christians. As Pope St. Fabian headed the Church for 14 years from January 10, 236 to January 20, 250. He died as a martyr during the persecution of the next Emperor Decius on January 20, 250. Another famous Church historian Cyprian said that the glory of death of Fabian was 'incomparable' with others in holiness and purity.

Reflection for the day

Theme: The Supreme Power of God

"...and that all this assembly may know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD's and he will give you into our hand." (I Samuel 17:47)

Most often due to the way we see ourselves, our net worth and connections, we seem to be so confident in ourselves such that, we become gods/godesses unto ourselves. O! what an empty confidence. We tend to forget the power of the Almighty who sees beyond our sight.

Today, the first book of Samuel presents alongside with other biblical passages the supreme power of our God; stating that it is beyond the size or connection that it is about God and God alone.

"...and that all this assembly may know that the LORD saves not with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD's and he will give you into our hand." (I Samuel 17:47)

Right from time immemorial, God has proved to us in many ways His readiness to fight our battle, assuring us of His unconditional concern about our welfare, as the book of Exodus says: 

"The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.” (Exodus 14:14). 

And in another part He says:
"You will not need to fight in this battle. Stand firm, hold your position, and see the salvation of the LORD on your behalf, O Judah and Jerusalem.’ Do not be afraid and do not be dismayed. Tomorrow go out against them, and the LORD will be with you.” (2 Chronicles 20:17)

These and many are His promises to us, and as such, we have no need to be afraid for He is there with and for us. Every battle we are facing daily is not beyond us and our God, it is there to make us get closer to God and be hopeful, that with God all things are possible. 

It is not by our might but by the spirit says the Lord. Let our hearts not be troubled but rejoice that with God we are conquered. 

Peace, be with you.

Let us pray 🙏 

Merciful Lord, we continue to thank You for Your faithfulness and love. As we keep on rely on Your love and mercy ignite in us the spirit of sincerity that all that we know about You may not be doubted. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

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