DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

Tuesday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time of the Year

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful

Celebration:  St Peter Damian, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

(1007-1072). St Peter Damian, a Benedictine monk, was the author of many important works of liturgy, theology and morals. He supported St. Gregory VII in his struggle for the rights of the Church.

Table of the Word: 

RI:  Sirach 2:1-11

Gospel: Mark 9:30-37

"My son, if you come forward to serve the Lord, remain in justice and in fear, and prepare yourself for temptation." (Sirach 2:1)

Theme: Our Help is the name of the Lord.

When the Psalmist proclaimed:

"Our Help is the name of the Lord." (Psalm 124:8); it is possible that he went through some difficulties and trials that were beyond his power. In other to get out of the schakcles of the trap he then turned to God with this acclaimation having recognized the omnipotency of God. 

However, from today's Table of the Word, we are being reminded of the temptation that may await us in the course of our discipleship as the author of the book of Sirach says: 

"My son, if you come forward to serve the Lord, remain in justice and in fear, and prepare yourself for temptation." (Sirach 2:1).

This admontion is a call for preparation for the solemn sesson of reconciliation with the Father (Lent).

Therefore, let us commit our ways to the Lord as the Psalmist avers:"Commit your way to the Lord, and he will act." (Psalm 37: 5). 

A call to trust in God no matter the situation we may find ourselves. He is always there for us, to instruct, guide and protect.

Finally, let us bear witness to Him in truth and sincerity, then we will never be disappointed. Peace, be with you.

Let us pray

Merciful.God, we thank You for the many blessings we receive from You. In our dealing grant us the grace to be faithful to You in trust so that we may be true witness and ambassador of the Cross.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE                     21022023