The Word: "There is one thing I ask of the Lord, to live in the house of the Lord." (see Psalm 27)
Mystery of the day: Sorrowful
Celebration of the day: Ferial
Table of the Word: I R.: Acts 5:34-42
Resp. Psalm: Psalm 27
Verse before the Gospel: Matthew 4:4b
Gospel: John 6:1-15
Inspiration: I intentionally did not want to deviate from the readings of today in my personal reflection considering the pains of losing a trusted friend and a brother - Rev. Fr. Anthony Okon of Uyo Catholic Presbyterium; rather I prefer a sort of spiritual eulogy in his honour within the context of today's liturgy of the Word. Fr. Tony was more than a friend and a brother to me, whose demise has created a deep vacuum in my heart.
On this day I recall with tears that D-day when the news of his demise filtered the air. At the first instance, I thought it to be a fairy tale or what could be re-captioned later in the day. I never knew that in reality Fr. Tony has gone to be with the Lord and has reached the fullness of his desire as a Christian.
Taking a look at today's responsorial psalm, there is nothing so consoling as it response which says: "There is one thing I ask of the Lord, to live in the house of the Lord." (see Psalm 27) The house here goes beyond the physical structure we have seen, to a beautiful place where there is no sickness, pains, and sorrows.
This indeed was the desire of Fr. Tony right from the moment of his baptism till that fateful day he returned to his Creator marked with the sign of faith. Certainly, I do not doubt that he is with the master of the vineyard whom he served so well.
As I went through other readings especially the first reading , I saw the image of Fr. Tony in the apostles who were rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonour for the name of Jesus (cf.Acts 5:34-42). His firmness in faith and docility attested to this fact.
Those who knew him, can testify that he was a humble and simple pastor whose door was always open to all; he was always at the Service of both the young and the old. Just like the Apostles in the first reading, he was not in doubt of the risen Lord, he bore witness to this salvific event till the last breath irrespective of every challenge.
Tony's life was a testament to his beliefs. He spreads love, joy, and positivity wherever he went. His unwavering commitment to priestly service was above board, and kindness to those in need spoke in volumes.
Beloved in Christ, this commentary on this "man of God" as he was fondly known by friends is a reminder, and a wake-up call on us to put in our best in our day-to-day living experience for the hour will certainly come when we least expected. And when it eventually comes, can we with smile say: "Master, here is five talents you gave me, I have raised another five talents as interest." And let us be reminded that: "Some people go to bed early, some go late, but the fact remains everyone must certainly go to bed."
Today, we who knew Fr. Tony dip our joy into cup of pains as he will be returned to mother earth, not as pagans but as those whose faith is built only in God who is our beginning and end.
Fr. Tony, words are not enough to express my pains your departure has left me with alongside those who knew you. Asiere, eti ufan. We love you but God loves you most. Rest in peace till we meet to depart no more, eti asanga utom.
Let us pray
Heavenly Father, we ask for your mercy and grace for your servant Fr. Anthony Okon as he pass from this life into eternity. Please bring him into your loving arms and grant him peace and rest. We also pray for those whom he left behind, that they would find comfort and hope in your presence and the promise of eternal life. Fr. Tony, may the good Lord whom you did not doubt while alive grant you an eternal reward in His bosom. Amen
Requiescat in pace!
© The ARCHIVE 12042024
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