DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

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

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Luminous 

CELEBRATION OF THE DAY: Ferial 

TABLE OF THE WORD:  1 Thessalonians 3:7-13; Matthew 24:42-51.

THEME: Be watchful!

THE WORD: 

•  ‘Watch for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming..” (Matthew 24:42)

One of the elements that spurs success in every test or hunt is preparation.  That is to be successful one must be prepared, the preparation here entails hardworking and be conscious of the task ahead.

Evangelist Matthew in today's gospel pericope presents before us the teaching of our Lord about the day-of-days where the Son of man will return in glory. The day prophets, priests,  evangelists and many other gospel men and women have talked about. Here our Lord spoke in clear terms: 

•  ‘Watch for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming..” (Matthew 24:42)

This however calls for adequate preparations to behold the beauty of that day, if not if it will meet us in our unpreparedness and we will certainly bound to loose it out. 

On the other hand, perseverance in faith also serves as the foundation for this preparedness, that is why St. Paul in his exhortation to the Thessalonians Church says: 

"Brethren, in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith; for now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord." (1 Thessalonians 3:7-8).

INSPIRATION

Beloved in Christ, the fundamental question for us this morning is: If all the social media platforms, the International and local dailies carry the message of the coming of the Lord saying: "The Lord will come next two days" what will you be doing? 

Certainly, some may pack into the church so as to run away from evil tendencies, many will make amends both with God and humanity, while others will continue with whatever they are doing?

Therefore, which of the camps do we belong? The answer is yours. 

St. Paul in another place re-emphasized  the need for preparation whlle addressing  the Corinthians: “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13). And in his admonition to the Colossians he says:

“Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.”  (Colossians 4:2). While St. Peter has this to say:

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8).

Finally dearest friend in Christ, be prepared  with perseverance in faith no matter how odd and tough it may be for the hour or moment He will come remains hidden from us. 

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

Eternal.Word, in gratitude we thank You for the many blessings we receive from You. Grant we pray the grace to forge ahead with perseverance in faith so that we will be ever ready to behold that great day-of-days.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.

+ May the Lord in His infinite mercy bless and keep us, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                        31082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

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

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Glorious 

CELEBRATION OF THE DAY: Ferial 

TABLE OF THE WORD: 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13; Matthew 23:27-32.

THEME: Dignity of Labour.

THE WORD: 

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

St. Paul while in Thessalonica with his team physically laboured at trades to meet their daily needs. He was a renowned tent-maker (cf. Acts 18:3). Paul made tents in Corinth, Thessalonica, and Ephesus. He worked long hours into the night so that he could preach the gospel in the day.

Denotatively, the word “labour” carries the idea of painful effort, emphasizing toil in work — hardship, distress. St. Paul and his co-workers put in a lot of hard work in bringing the gospel to the Thessalonians.

This text serves as an invitation to embrace our daily toil with dignity as St. Paul and his co-workers did. 

INSPIRATION

Biblically, St. Paul still in his exhortation to the Thessalonians Church avers:  "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." ( 2 Thessalonians 3: 10-12) This ofcourse is a reminder of God's invitation to humanity following the creation account where He asked man to till and cultivate the earth for his living (cf. Genesis 2:15).

Beloved in Christ, how dutiful are we in our day-to-day living. Do we allow laziness to swallow us up with vain hope that God will provide manna as He did in the desert? 

Absolutely  no. We need to carry our implements, ask God for grace and strength and then set forth to till the earth. There and then that we will see the finger of God in every situation. It is in the field that the manna will fall through positive progress the Lord will bless us with; because we have till and cultivate the earth.  Let our labour be dignified for it is God's invitation to partner in protecting what He created. No matter where we are olabted let us blossom for God is the master of every vineyard.

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

O God, we thank You for the many blessings we receive from You. Your Word is always a lamp for our feet. Grant that we pray the grace to persevere in our daily toil, and at the end bless us with a bountiful harvest of joy. 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.

+ May the Lord in His infinite mercy bless and keep us, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                        30082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

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

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Sorrowful 

CELEBRATION OF THE DAY: The Passion of Saint John the Baptist

St John's fearless condemnation of Herod's unlawful marriage incurred the hatred of the king's bride, Herodias. She had him imprisoned and finally killed. St John the Baptist teaches us to be strong in carrying out the mission God has given us.

TABLE OF THE WORD: Jeremiah 1:17-19; Mark 6:17-29.

THEME: I am with you.

THE WORD: 

• "They will fight against you; but they shall not prevail against you, for I am with you, says the LORD, to deliver you." (Jeremiah 1:19)

The Scripture often serves as our sure foundation in which our faith is built upon. It gives us the assurance of God's abiding presence, that if we are faithful to His detects and ordinances we will not be disappointed.  This goes along way to establish the fact which is ascribed to St. Augustine that: "God who created us without us cannot save us without us." 

However, there must be our co-participation in our journey of redemption. This Divine assurance has been a repeated promise in many parts of the scripture.  The book of Exodus 14:14 further gives us insight into this promise as God says: "keep still, I will fight your battle." 

Consequently,  the gospel pericope gives us an account of a man who did his best to keep the Divine detects and ordinances-John the Baptist, who along the line lost his life for a higher good - the eternal life. (cf. Mark 6:17-29)

INSPIRATION

Every now and then we keep on reflecting on how to defeat our enemies, how can we triumph over the trap set before us? How possible is it to get rid of the plan of evil one? With all these, the Lord has invited us into a deeper relationship with Him, and if we eventually hearken to His instructions then His ever abiding presence will be with us as Prophet Jeremiah says: 

• "They will fight against you; but they shall not prevail against you, for I am with you, says the LORD, to deliver you." (Jeremiah 1:19)

Beloved in Christ, if God is with us who can be against us? With this Divine promise the ever abiding presence of God is with us, therefore fear not for He is with us always. 

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

O God, who willed that Saint John the Baptist should go ahead of your Son both in his birth and in his death, grant that as he died a Martyr for truth and justice, we, too, may fight hard for the confession of what you teach. 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.

+ May the Lord in His infinite mercy bless and keep us, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                        29082023

DIVINE BEDTIME WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

21st SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (A)

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Glorious 

TABLE OF THE WORD: Isaiah 22:19-23; Romans 11:33-36; Matthew 16:13-20

THEME: Who is Jesus to you?

THE WORD:

"Who do men say that the Son of man is?" And they said, "Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" (Matthew 16:13-14)

The personality of Jesus is quite difficult to explain unlike that of humans, it is difficult in the sense that He has a double personality: Divine and Human (except in sin). We cannot define Him based on His human attribute. While some sees Him as one of the ancient prophets who has return, many see Him as John the Baptist who came to prepare the way for the Messiah and others may have a different notion of Him.

In his essay on the emotional life of Christ, theologian B. B. Warfield describes the two dangerous tendencies that the church has exhibited in its attempt to understand the humanity of Christ. One is to lean so far into his divinity that the human is undermined. The other is to err in the opposite direction and so rob him of his divinity. “Between the two, the figure of Jesus is liable to take on a certain vagueness of outline, and come to lack definiteness in thought” Warfield warns. We must do justice to both dimensions of Christ’s nature without somehow allowing each to cancel out the other or ending up with a hybrid being who is neither truly God nor truly man. 

In as much as we hold on to the two personalities of Jesus: the human and divine, Christ was more divine than human, that is why He was free from sin. 

In summary, the personality of Jesus can be summed up in the virtues of compassion and justice. These virtues are therefore an invitation to each and every one of us to exhibit same so as to be qualified to be called "Chriatian." 

INSPIRATION

My dearest friend(s) in Christ, wishing you (all) the best of this evening. Indeed, we are grateful to God for His love, faithfulnes and leading us thus far. 

In our day-to-day experience what can we say about the personality of Jesus? Do we see Him as all and all in us? Or are we defining Him according to our daily situation? 

Absolutely,  we don't need all these to define who Jesus is to us. The definition of His personality has nothing our personal thoughts but our encounter with with Him in various circumstances.  

Finally, as we retire after the fatigue of our daily task, let us take our minds back reflecting on who Jesus has been, who he is now and who He will be tomorrow? Indeed, He was, He is and He will forever be that same man of Galilee who is always there for us even when we are all asleep. 

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

O God, who cause the minds of the faithful to unite in a single purpose, grant your people to love what you command and to desire what you promise, that, amid the uncertainties of this world, our hearts may be fixed on that place where true gladness is found. Through our Lord Jesus Christ Your Son who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

+ May the Lord grant us a quiet night and a perfect end. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                       27082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

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

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Sorrowful 

CELEBRATION OF THE DAY: Ferial

TABLE OF THE WORD:   Ruth 1:1.3-6.14-16.22; Matthew 22:34-40.

THEME: Love beyond cost.

THE WORD: 

• “You shall love the Lord your God, your neighbour as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39)

Notably , there are a total of 613 Jewish commandments (mitzvot in Hebrew) extracted from the Old Testament. By implication, if one were to practice this law each per day it will certainly take almost two years. It is against this backdrop that one of the teachers of the law approached Jesus and then asked Him: Of all these laws which one is the greatest? Our Lord in His response gave him the summary of the 613 Jewish commandments with reference to that which God gave to Moses - decalogue (ten commandments) (cf. Exodus 20:1ff.) which is founded on love. That is love of God and and love of our neighbours as we love ourselves. 

This reality is being played out in the Cross of Jesus, the vertical and horizontal axis. That is our love to Him points to the vertical axis and that for our neighbours is being represented by the horizontal axis. With Christ spreading His hands horizontally,  He invites us to His love which is in God.

INSPIRATION 

None of us exist outside the love of God through His only begotten Son (cf. John 3:16). We are all beneficiaries of this highest attribute of God; for in love everything was made, and through it man was given the mandate to put them into use for the greater glory of God. 

Beloved in Christ, how then do we reciprocate this kind gesture of our God upon us? Is it through betrayal of one another? Is it by using our neighbours as stepping stone or ladder to vain glory and fame? Could we say, we love God by bearing false witness against one another? By and large, doing all these tentamount to ingratitude which the scripture forbids us. (cf. Genesis 40:23, Numbers 16:13-14; Judges 8:35; Judges 9:18)

Finally, let us learn the language of love, think about it, speak about it and then put it into action for God is Love. Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

O Eternal Word, strength of the weak and health of the infirmities, we adore and bless Your name. Grant we pray the grace to love beyond counting the cost so that we may continue to grow in the palms of Your Love. 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.

+ May the Lord in His infinite mercy bless and keep us, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE                             25082023      

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

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

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Joyful

CELEBRATION OF THE DAY: St Pius X, Pope

(1835-1914). He was born near Venice to a very humble family. He was distinguished for his continuous service to the Church and to all souls; first as priest, later as bishop and Patriach Archbishop of Venice and finally as Roman Pontiff. He strongly defended the purity of Catholic doctrine against modern heresies. He instilled dignity to sacred liturgy, and he extended the practice of frequent communion.

TABLE OF THE WORD:   Judges 2:11-19;   Mt 19:16-22

THEME: Go and sell all that you have....

THE WORD: 

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

Today's gospel reading addressed the problem of where we deposit our treasure, which the scripture before now has exhorted us to lay a treasure where moth will not destroy. According to Evangelist Matthew who gives account of the rich young man seeking for eternal life, presents before us the disappointment he got when Christ gave him the last straw to be admitted into the kingdom.

At first instance, he told Christ that he has done everything which is rooted in the decalogue (10 commandments) but Christ told him that something is still lacking: 

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

The scripture says the man went back very sad because he was a man of riches. In his understanding he thought keeping the law alone is the sure way to Heaven not knowing that there is need to detach in order to attach. In this case, it was very difficult for him to detach himself from wealth and get attach to the way of Heaven.

INSPIRATION

Beloved in Christ, what is it that is distracting us from the way of holiness? Is it material things? Friends? Frivolities of this ephemeral life? etc. In all all these none, absolutely none should barr us from this path of eternal bliss. Recalling the exhortation of our brother St. Paul when he said that with all these around us, none can be compared to the future glory awaiting us (cf. Romans 8:1ff.)

Finally,  as we roll out drums today to celebrate the "Pope of the Eucharist" - Pope St. Pius X, a man renowned for his outstanding effort in giving shape to the body of Christ by starting the coding of the Canon law, instilling discipline on the Sacrament of the Eucharist, let us invoke him on this day to intercede on our behalf for grace to let go our old self and put on new man in Christ which is interior poverty for the sake of the kingdom of God.

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

O God, who to safeguard the Catholic faith and to restore all things in Christ, filled Pope Saint Pius the Tenth with heavenly wisdom and apostolic fortitude, graciously grant that, following his teaching and example, we may gain an eternal prize. 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.

+ May the Lord in His infinite mercy bless and keep us, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE                           21082023

DIVINE BEDTIME WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

20TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (A)

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Glorious 

TABLE OF THE WORD: Isaiah 56:1.6-7; Romans 11:13-15.29-32; Matthew 15:21-28.

THEME: Amidst the "stony" silence of God.

THE WORD

"It is not fair to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs." She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." Then Jesus answered her, "O woman, great is your faith!" (Matthew15:26-28)

**********************************************

Dearest friend(s) in Christ, a beautiful evening Sunday to you (all). As we are retiring to bed in thanksgiving to God for the day well spent, and a hopeful hope for those who had it rough today; I wish to tell you that our tomorrow will be better than today. Therefore keep your faith high!

From today's Table of the Word I wish to reflect with you on the Words from the gospel pericope (Matthew 15:21-28). The story of faith and perseverance. Recounting the event that took place when Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon [Tyre and Sidon were ancient, coastal cities located north of Galilee along the Mediterranean Sea, in modern Lebanon. Sidon was founded by Canaanites (cf. Genesis 10:15; 10:19; I Chronicles 1:13)]

when a Canannite woman approached Him and begged Him to heal her daughter who was tormented by demon. Jesus showed her "a dead silence" the very silence that was enough for her to retreat from pestering on Him. As if that was not enough, when He broke the silence, our Lord's response reminded her of her background using the image of a "dog." 

However, in the Biblical usage the image of a dog portrays uncleanness,  object of humiliation etc. For instance, the terms "dog," "dog's head," "dead dog," were used as terms of reproach or of humiliation (cf. 1 Samuel 24:14 ; 2 Sam 3:8 ; 9:8 ; 16:9 ). Paul calls false apostles "dogs" (cf. Phil 3:2 ). Those who are shut out of the kingdom of heaven are also so designated with the term "dog" (cf. Revelation 22:15).

Amidst this disregard and humiliation because she was a Canannite woman she stood firm in her faith believing that Jesus is  the only healing master.

INSPIRATION

In our prayer life, or moment of hope in God for what we are yet to receive, do we have perseverance in mind? Or do we think that just a few words of request is enough to get it done. I don't think so, the scenario in today's gospel brings before us a touching lesson; on perseverance in prayer no matter how tough and prolong the circumstances may linger.

The stony silence of God has never been known to be "No" but an invitation to make a paradigm shift from the former place to a new location. In the case of this woman she was on her feet while crying for help, but when Christ turned to her, she hurriedly knelt before Him saying: 

"Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." Indeed, she was moved with faith, that even if it is impossible, but with Him all protocols can be put away. We on our part must kneel before God so as to stand before men. 

Finally, beloved in Christ, amidst every trials and tribulations, with God no matter any protocol we will triumph provided we are ready to relocate from the former to the latter. Remember,  new wine must be in new wine skin. Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

O God, who have prepared for those who love you good things which no eye can see, fill our hearts, we pray, with the warmth of your love, so that, loving you in all things and above all things, we may attain your promises, which surpass every human desire. We make our prayer through our Lord Jesus Christ who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

+ May the Lord grant us a quiet night and a perfect end. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                       20082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

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

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Joyful

CELEBRATION OF THE DAY: St John Eudes, Priest (Optional Memorial)
(1601-1680). Born in France. A great apostle, he preached and encouraged devotion to the Hearts of Jesus and Mary. He founded an association of priests and the religious Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity..

TABLE OF THE WORD: Joshua 24:14-29; Matthew 19:13-15

THEME: Choose this day whom you will serve.

THE WORD: 

• "In those days: Joshua spoke to the people, saying, "Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness; put away the gods which your fathers served beyond the River, and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. And if you be unwilling to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve,..." (Joshua 24:14-29)

Beloved in Christ, greetings in the name of our Lord and Saviour - Jesus Christ. In our reflection today, Joshua assembled the people of Israel at Shechem and gave them his farewell address before he died.

• "In those days: Joshua spoke to the people, saying, "Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness; put away the gods which your fathers served beyond the River, and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. And if you be unwilling to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve,..." (Joshua 24:14-29)

He began by reminding them of the goodness of the Lord in their midst. And on this day, he gave them option to choose whom to serve: the foreign god or the God of their father Abraham, but for him and his household he will serve the living God. 

INSPIRATION

As Joshua addressed the people of Israel today to choose whom to serve. This invitation comes to each and everyone of us. An invitation which called for discernment in our attitude towards God when the going is either good or bad. Notably, it is in either of these moments that we can choose whom to serve. Is it foreign God because the going is tough or is it our Creator because the going is good?

However, let us be reminded that, there is nothing that can replace God no matter what. We owe Him gratitude at all times. Let the trouble and challenge of this life not push us to doubt; rather let us together with Johnson Oatman, Jr. sing:

When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost
Count your many blessings, name them one by one
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done

Count your blessings, name them one by one
Count your blessings, see what God hath done
Count your blessings, name them one by one
Count your many blessings, see what God hath done.

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

Almighty and Eternal God, we return thanks and praise to You for Your faithfulness and love. Grant we pray the grace to be true in worship. May the trials of thie life not betray our faith in You, rather may it strengthen our resolve to worship You in spirit and truth. We make this prayer 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.

+ May the Lord in His infinite mercy bless and keep us, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE                           20082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

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

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Sorrowful 

CELEBRATION OF THE DAY: Ferial.

TABLE OF THE WORD: Joshua 24:1-13; Psalm 136:1-3.16-18.21-22 and 24 (R. 1b); Matthew 19:3-12.

THEME: O! give thanks to the LORD.

THE WORD: 

• "O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his mercy endures for ever. Give thanks to the God of gods, for his mercy endures for ever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords, for his mercy endures for ever." (Psalm 136:1-3)

INSPIRATION

Today's Psalm called to mind  the essence of Thanksgiving:

"O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his mercy endures for ever. Give thanks to the God of gods, for his mercy endures for ever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords, for his mercy endures for ever." (Psalm 136:1-3)

 As in the first reading where  Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem and recounted the deeds of the Lord. This in fact was also an invitation to give thanks to the Lord for what He has done among them. (cf. Joshua 24:1-13)

However,  on our part how often do we appreciate God for the favours received? Eventhough, in the Church's teaching our thanksgiving add nothing to Him but increases the chance for more blessing. 

The scripture also invites us to a life of thanksgiving no matter the situation; either when the going is smooth or when it is tough. 

Let us therefore be conscious of the fact that, there is nothing that we have, or status we occupy that was not made easy by our God. Let our thought be that of thanksgiving,  our words be: "thank you! thank you!! and thank you Lord!!; and our actions be that of thanksgiving all to God through humanity. 

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

Eternal Father, we thank You for the love, care and protection we receive from You. In our day-to-day living,  may we live out our lives in thanksgiving to You no matter the situation. We make this prayer 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.

+ May the Lord in His infinite mercy bless and keep us, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                        18082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

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

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Luminous 

CELEBRATION OF THE DAY: Ferial.

TABLE OF THE WORD: Joshua 3:7-10.11.13-17; Matthew 18:21-19:1.

THEME: How often shall I forgive?

THE WORD:

• "Peter came up and said to Jesus, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven."(Matthew 18:22ff.)

INSPIRATION

The question of forgiveness goes with million thoughts. Thought of how often shall I forgive? After forgiveness,  is it possible to forget the hurt? What is the measure of remorsefulness before one fogives guilt? etc. 

It is in line with this, that today's Table of the Word sets out to provide answers to these mind blowing questions. 

Right from moment of creation, after the fall of man and losing of the original Grace. (cf. Genesis 3:1ff.), forgiveness was was central in the thought of God, thus sending His only begotten Son, Jesus for the mission of reconciling humanity with Divinity. (cf. John 3:16). Still in the New Testament account, when the disciples approached Jesus and asked Him to teach them how to pray as John taught his disciples; Christ taught them the greatest prayer: "Our Father or The Lord's Prayer." (cf. Matthew 6:9-15)

However, in the 5th article of the Lord's Prayer: "Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors." This article called to mind an invitation to let go hurt inflicted on us. But how many times should we let go? The gospel pericope for today has this to say:

• "Peter came up and said to Jesus, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven."(Matthew 18:22ff.)

The text gave us an indepth understanding of what forgiveness is; which the 5th article of the Lord's Prayer encourages us to forgive one another if we desire forgiveness from God. And that our failure to forgive one another, God will not forgive us.

In conclusion, the summary of the whole discussion is forgive, forgive, and continue to forgive until you forgive.

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

Merciful Lord, the source of who we are, we thank You for the gift of the dawn, bless us with a forgiving spirit without counting the cost. We make this prayer 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.

+ May the Lord in His infinite mercy bless and keep us, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                        17082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE 19TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (A)

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Glorious 

CELEBRATION OF THE DAY:St Stephen of Hungary

(969-1038). He ruled as king of Hungary with great wisdom and was outstanding for his justice and piety. He organized the evangelization of his country.

TABLE OF THE WORD: Deuteronomy 34:1-12; Matthew 18:15-20

THEME: Forgiveness. 

THE WORD

... "If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. ."   (Matthew 18:15-16)

The act of forgiving one another borne out of love, for if there is no love there is no forgiveness. Today's gospel pericope called to mind the need to make effort to forgive one another, stating three different approaches for this; and if at the end the one involve is not ready for the reconciliation treat him or her like a tax collector. The image of tax collector used here denotes "a sinner or unrepentant fellow." 

To buttress this, God spoke through our brother St. Paul in the gospel acclamation saying:

"God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation." (  2 Corinthians 5:19)

INSPIRATION

Beloved in Christ, how much do we love God? What language of love do we speak to one another? Does this language of love has a touch or elemènt of forgiveness in it?

In our daily relationship with one another, how do we relate? Do we bear with one's weakness, does our strength gives support to the weak? Having full sense of sight, do we lead the blind aright? These and many are pertinent questions to ponder on this morning and give answer to each accordingly.

As we begin this day, let our thoughts, words and actions speaks love for God through the forgiveness of one another.

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

Grant your Church, we pray, almighty God, the serenity so desire, a total love of You without reserve so as to forgive one another for the love of You. 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.

+ May the Lord in His infinite mercy bless and keep us, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                        16082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

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

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Sorrowful 

CELEBRATION OF THE DAY:The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

This feast was celebrated in the liturgy of the Eastern World from the sixth century and, in Rome, from the seventh century. On November 1, 1950 Pope Pius XII defined the dogma of the Assumption. He solemnly proclaimed that the belief whereby the Blessed Virgin Mary, at the close of her earthly career, was taken up body and soul, into the glory of heaven, really forms part of the deposit of faith, received from the apostles. This feast confirms us in the theological virtue of hope whereby we seek our sanctification and that of the others in the midst of our ordinary duties. At the same time we are encouraged to look at our goal in heaven.

TABLE OF THE WORD:Revelation 11:19;12:1-6.10; I Corinthians 15:20-26; Luke 1:39-56.

THEME: We fly to Thy patronage. 

THE WORD

"For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive."   (I Corinthians 15:21 -22)

Today's liturgy of the Word gives insight into the mystery surrounding the salvation history of humanity through our Mother whose Solemnity of Assumption we celebrate today. 

The first reading recounted the vision of St. John about a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars; she was with child and she cried out in her pangs of birth, in anguish for delivery. This vision is being manifested in the event of the flight to Egypt by the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph (cf. Matthew 2:13-23). 

The second reading reveals God's unfathomable mercy upon humanity when he must have lost the original Grace by sending His only begotten Son as "second Adam" to reconcile humanity with Divinity. (cf. John 3:16).

On the other way round, Evangelist Luke presents before us the Cantile of praise (Magnificat) by our Lady, who acknowledges her lowly state and praising God for choosing her as the "New Ark of Covenant."

INSPIRATION

Dearest in Christ, as we joyfully celebrate Our dear Mother today, whose patronage has never fail humanity; let us in faith reflect briefly on the mystery surrounding our reconciliation with the Father.

The choice of Her in the Divine plan was for the salvation of man, the obligation she has rightly fulfilled as Co-Redemptrix.

We are therefore invited this day to keep on seeking her intercession every now and then, as she is ever ready and willing to hearken to our need as she did at the wedding feast in Cana. Let our hearts burn with love for her and then we will not be in need as she will surely present our request to Her Son. 

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

O God, who, looking on the lowliness of the Blessed Virgin Mary, raised her to this grace, that your Only Begotten Son was born of her according to the flesh and that she was crowned this day with surpassing glory, grant through her prayers, that, saved by the mystery of your redemption, we may merit to be exalted by you on high. 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.

+ May the Lord in His infinite mercy bless and keep us, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                        15082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

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

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Joyful

CELEBRATION OF THE DAY: St Maximilian Mary Kolbe, Priest and Martyr

(1894-1941). Maximilian Mary Kolbe was born in Poland. He consecrated himself to the Lord in the Franciscan Order. Filled with love for the Virgin, he founded the Militia of the Immaculate Mary and, with preaching and writing, undertook an intense apostolic mission in Europe and Asia. Interned in Auschwitz during the Second World War, he offered himself in exchange for the father of a large family who was to be executed. He died of hunger in the concentration camp. John Paul II proclaimed him the Patron of Our suffering Century. His life reminds us of the many problems of our time: hunger, peace and reconciliation among men, and the need to give meaning to life and death.

TABLE OF THE WORD: Deuteronomy 10:12-22; Matthew 17:22-27.

THEME: The Fear of God.

THE WORD

The scripture says: "The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom." (Proverbs 9:10). The reminder which today's first reading (Deuteronomy 10:12-22)  made allusion to. Here Moses invited the Israelites to be conscious of the detects and ordinances of God with fear. And that their Fathers came into the land of Egypt in few numbers, but out of God's love they were multiplied in hundreds upon hundreds. 

The gospel pericope (Matthew 17:22-27) on the other hand, presents before us, our Lord who reminded the apostles of His dead and resurrection. And the need to be a patriotic citizen by paying tax and participating in other civic responsibilities.

INSPIRATION

Dearest in Christ, how faithful are we to the detects and ordinances of God, and our civic responsibilities as citizens? This question calls for deper reflection as most often we allow ourselves to be carried away with frivolities of life and then neglect the law of God and constitution guiding us as citizens.

Today, we are therefore reminded the need to be conscious of these laws and at the same time put them into action. In doing this, we are glorifying our God as the Psalmist proclaimed today.(cf. Psalm 148:1-2.11-12.13.14)

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

O God, who filled the Priest and Martyr Saint Maximilian Kolbe with a burning love for the Immaculate Virgin Mary and with zeal for souls and love of neighbour, graciously grant, through his intercession, that, striving for your glory by eagerly serving others, we may be conformed, even until death, to your Son. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

+ May the Lord in His infinite mercy bless and keep us, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                       14082023

DIVINE BEDTIME WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

SUNDAY OF THE 19TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (A)

MYSTERY OF THE DAY: Glorious 

TABLE OF THE WORD: 1Kings 19:9.11-13; Romans 9:1-5;  Matthew 14:22-33.

THEME: Faith over Fear.

THE WORD

The summary of today's liturgy of the Word could rightly be summarized with the theme: "FAITH over FEAR" which I can described as "Theo-Mathematical Formular" that is the interplay between God and humanity. By implication, God is  all-knowing, all-powerful and ever-present  and above every human situation. That is to say, the end product of trusting in God amidst fear is "Divine Stillness.

In the first reading (1Kings 19:9.11-13) we have seen Elijah who flee to the Cave to seek for stillness of mind. Lo and behold the Divine presence and revelation was not found in the stormy wind, thunderstorm, fire but in a gentle breeze. 

The gospel pericope ( Matthew 14:22-33) expresed the same situation in a different way. When Peter was commanded by the Lord to come by walking on the water, he did so because the fear of seeing ghost left him. But as soon as he lost focus at Jesus and allowed himself to be distracted with the raging storm and turbulent wind, he began to sink.

INSPIRATION

Beloved in Christ, in the stormy situation of our lives, God is always stretching His hands to us for support. Let us not allow our daily situations and crises to weigh us down or losing for in Christ, else we will end up sinking like Peter; but let our hope be built on Him as all-knowing God whose ever abiding presence covers always.

Peace be with you! 

PRAYER

Eternal Word, we thank You for bringing us to the end of this day. Grant we pray the grace to be focused on You and You alone so that we may not sink into the well of our suffering. Amen.

+ May the Lord grant us a quiet night and a perfect end. Amen.

(c) The ARCHIVE                       13082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

FRIDAY OF THE 18TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Celebration for the day: St. Clare, Virgin

(1193-1253). She imitated St. Francis of Assisi in the virtue of poverty and was remarkable for her penitent life. She founded the Order of the Poor Clares.

Theme: Forget not the goodness of the Lord.

"Ask now of the days that are past, which were before you, since the day that God created man upon the earth, and ask from one end of heaven to the other, whether such a great thing as this has ever happened or was ever heard of. Did any people ever hear the voice of a god speaking out of the midst of the fire, as you have heard, and still live? Or has any god ever attempted to go and take a nation for himself from the midst of another nation, by trials, by signs, by wonders, and by war, by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, and by great terrors,..." ( Deuteronomy 4:32-34) 

These and many other goodness are the handwork of our God in the past as Old Testament text recorded. In the New Testament era many of the goodness of the was experienced; in our age the situation is not different. This go a long way to bring to the fore the "timelessness of God" that is God of all season. 

In our liturgy of the Word today, the first reading presents before us the event where Moses recounted the wonderful deeds of God before the Israelites, citing the many wonders He did, which no other god can be compared with our God: 

Ask now of the days that are past, which were before you, since the day that God created man upon the earth, and ask from one end of heaven to the other, whether such a great thing as this has ever happened or was ever heard of. Did any people ever hear the voice of a god speaking out of the midst of the fire, as you have heard, and still live? Or has any god ever attempted to go and take a nation for himself from the midst of another nation, by trials, by signs, by wonders, and by war, by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, and by great terrors,..." ( Deuteronomy 4:32-34) 

This reminder came as a result of their murmuring and stubbornness of heart, amidst this they were still not satisfied with their situation. 

Beloved in Christ, how can we relate the situation of the Israelites with our own experience? Let us take our minds back, in our daily journal of life, we have had alot to boast of from God, ranging from the breath He freely gives, and other basic necessities of life including divine security which we cannot pay for; then how sudden do we begin to doubt His existence just because the going in our calculation is tough. 

Johnson Oatman Jr. the composer of that ancient hymn Count your Blessing avers: "When upon life's billows you are tempest-tossed,. When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,. Count your many blessings; name them one by one,..." 

Indeed, there is no better gospel of reminder than this. Sometimes we tend to be ungrateful to what God has done for us, easily forget how He led us out of the dungeon of pains, and set us on the table of healing, how He provided for us in moment of need, what about the serenity we enjoy despite the chaotic situation engulfing us, these and many others are testimonies of the goodness of our God. 

Beloved, forget not His goodness as the Psalmist cries out: "Bless the Lord, O! My soul and do not forget the goodness of the Lord." (Psalm 103:2). In doing this, we are reciprocating the kind gesture of His goodness. 

Finally, let us be thankful no matter the situation we find ourselves; while invoking the spiritual assistance of St. Clare whose Memorial we celebrate today to interceed for us that we may give thanks always. Peace be with you!

Let us pray

O God, who in your mercy led Saint Clare to a love of poverty, grant, through her intercession, that, following Christ in poverty of spirit, we may merit to contemplate you one day in the heavenly Kingdom. 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                           11082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

THURSDAY OF THE 18TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR

Mystery of the day: Luminous 

Celebration for the day:  St Lawrence, Deacon and Martyr

(3rd century). A Roman deacon, he died four days after Pope Sixtus II, during the persecution of Valerian. Arrested by the prefect and called on to deliver up the property of the Church, his answer was to point to a crowd of poor people. "Here are the true treasures of the Church", he said. He was roasted to death on a gridiron.

Theme: God loves a cheerful giver.

"He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."  (2 Corinthians 9:6-7) 

Today, we join the Holy Mother Church to celebrate the feast of St. Lawrence a deacon who was martyred under the reign of Emperor Valerian on account of describing the poor masses as the treasure of the Church having given out cheerfully for their upkeep against the will of the Emperor.

On account of this Celebration today's Table of the Word presents before us the impactul teaching of our Lord in the gospel reading where He presented Himself as the grain sown for eternal harvest. What a cheerful giving! In turn He called on us to do same by not holding on to anything here in the ephemeral existence if we desire to follow Him. (cf. John 12:24-26)

St. Paul on the other way round gives us the summary of this teaching thus:

"He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."  (2 Corinthians 9:6-7) 

Dearest friends in Christ, the fundamental question is: How do you give? Sparingly, generously or cheerfully? Having heard the word of God harden not your hard. Peace be with you!

Let us pray

O God, giver of that ardour of love for you by which Saint Lawrence was outstandingly faithful in service and glorious in martyrdom, grant that we may love what he loved and put into practice what he taught. 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                           10082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE 18TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR

Mystery of the day: Glorious 

Theme: The Power of faith

"It is not fair to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs." She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table."  (Matthew 15:26) 

The scripture gives us a sound definition of faith as "the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1). This definition is the summary of the Christian calling, for when we were in exile God called us out to follow Him. At that point we knew not where we are going, but with faith we followed Him. We answered the great "Yes" saying "Here I am" without considering the rigorisity of the journey, the bumps and potholes even the strange destination. Amidst these uncertainties and the fear of the unknown, we followed Him as His disciples with faith which has not disappoint us. The similar faith is what we see in today's gospel pericope involving the Canannite woman who approached Jesus for the healing of her daughter. 

At first instance, the Lord paid no attention to her, but her peserverance won her this great favour when our Lord said:

"It is not fair to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs." She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table."  (Matthew 15:26) 

She moved with an inner energy of faith telling Jesus eventhough I am not worthy, but I have faith that through your mercy my daughter can be healed. At this point in time the protocol was broken and her daughter healed instantly.

Beloved in Christ, when the going is tough, losing job, suffers the pain of losing a loved one, being bank robbed or face any other challenge or any other tribulation hiting us hard. Whom do we approach? Even when doubt misled our thought that it is impossible. Dearest friend, at this point in time we need a push to God in faith through prayer; for having faith means to release control to a greater power beyond the situation. Faith also help us to see the positive aspects of all these things.

We need to see God in every situation  whether good or bad, we need to see His hand in our misfortune, we need to see Him giving us a paternal hug when we get wearied, we need to see Him carrying us when we could scarcely walk on our own, all these point to faith. 

Finally, we don't need much of the faith but a little of it can do alot as He says: "For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you." (Matthew 17:20-21). Peace be with you!

Let us pray

Eternal Word we thank You for Your faithfulness. Yours is the earth and its fullness. Grant we pray faith strong enough to journey with You so that our weakness may not betray our trust in You. 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                           09082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE 18TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Celebration for the day: St. Dominic, Priest (1170-1221). 

Born in Calahorra (Spain). He worked tirelessly to uproot the Albigensian heresy. He was outstanding for his learning and love for poverty. He is the founder of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans).

Theme: The danger of being envious.

"Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of the Cushite woman whom he had married, for he had married a Cushite woman; and they said, "Has the LORD indeed spoken only through Moses? Has he not spoken through us also?" (Numbers 12:1-2) 

The Merriam Webster dictionary defines envy as a painful or resentful awareness of an advantage enjoyed by another joined with a desire to possess the same advantage. This vice goes contrary to the virtue of contentment which is the best of all riches. 

In today's first reading, we have seen this dreadful vice (envy) which come to play in the life of Miriam and Aaron. They were jealous of Moses, asking why should God spoke through him alone despite the fact that he married a Cushite woman? 

Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of the Cushite woman whom he had married, for he had married a Cushite woman; and they said, "Has the LORD indeed spoken only through Moses? Has he not spoken through us also?" (Numbers 12:1-2) 

In their human calculation Moses was not qualified to be God's channel. God who is all-knowing and with surpassing greatness invited them to the tent of meeting where He inflicted punishment on Miriam for such utterances made against Moses.

Beloved in Christ, why do we take pleasure in using others as ladder to our greatness? Why do we always see speck in other eyes while ignoring log of wood in ours? Who made us a judge against one another? Why do we think that it is us only that merit that favour? Why do we suddenly forget that there is nothing that we have that was not given to us for the good of others? These and many mind blowing questions begged for answers.

Today, we are being invited to go into our various spiritual weighing balance to check ourselves while paying cognizance to this vice of pulling down syndrome and unnecessary envy of others progress.

To the victims of this maladies, the good Lord whispers in today's gospel pericope: "Take heart, it is I; have no fear." (Matthew 14:27). The same manner He stood by Moses, He will certainly stand by us in moment like this, when the heathen will see our disqualification and not our worthness through God's grace.

Finally, it is obvious that envy is a threat to progress, as it destroys uniqueness, divides attention, wastes time and energy, and leads to every other sin. It is our prayer through the intercession of St. Dominic whose memorial celebrate today that God may give us the grace to appreciate every one's gift with words of encouragement. Peace be with you!

Let us pray

May Saint Dominic come to the help of your Church by his merits and teaching, O Lord, and may he, who was an outstanding preacher of your truth, be a devoted intercessor on our behalf. 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                           08082023

DIVINE WHISPER with FR. PIUSRALPH EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE 18TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Theme: Forget not the goodness of the Lord.

"O that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt for nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic; but now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at." (Numbers 11:4-5)

O! How suddenly do we forget where we came from? Why are we in haste to erase our history from our minds? Being where we are is for a purpose to look back in thanksgiving and the future with enthusiasm. Sadly, sometimes the reverse is the case. 

Today, a reminder has been sent to us to be grateful to God in every situation, no matter how difficult it may seems. As the first reading brings before us the lamentation of the Israelites:

"O that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt for nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic; but now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at." (Numbers 11:4-5)

It is quite heart breaking and disappointed hearing this from the same people who once complained of food and water and the Lord provided them with manna and water too:

"Would that we had died by the hand of the LORD in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the fleshpots and ate bread to the full; for you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger." (Exodus 16:3)

Today, they turned against God and Moses again requesting for meat. What insatiability attitude!  This attitude most often is found among us, and we tend to ask for more without appreciating the former. 

However, on our own part what have we done to reciprocate the kind gesture we have received first? Think about this... Peace be with you!

Let us pray

Merciful Lord, thank You for the wonders of our being. Teach us we pray the way to be appreciative for what we have already received; and on our part may we be ready always to reciprocate this gesture of yours by loving one another. 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                           07082023