Reflection on the Feast of St. Stephen with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

December 26th 

Mystery of the day: Luminous 

Celebration for the day: Feast of St. Stephen.

He was the first Christian martyr. Stoned outside Jerusalem, he died praying for his executioners. He was one of the seven deacons who helped the apostles: he was "filled with faith and with the Holy Spirit", and was "full of fortitude". The Church draws a comparison between the disciple and the Master, emphasizing the imitation of Christ up to the complete gift of self. His name is in the Roman Canon.

Table of the Word

Acts 6:8-10, 7:54-59

Matthew 10:17-22

Theme: Be courageous!

Reflection 

On this day, the 26th of December and the first Octave of Christmastide we join the Mother Church to celebrate the Feast of the first Christian Martyr - St. Stephen. A man filled with "faith and Holy Spirit", and was "full of fortitude". 

Taking a look at the Liturgy of the Word, we are being invited to reflect on the themes: courage, faith, and witness. These virtues can be well explained in the two readings presented to us. 

However, the first reading taken from the Acts 6:8-10, 7:54-59, we read the story of St. Stephen's martyrdom, where he courageously proclaims his faith in the face of persecution; Evangelist Matthew in the gospel pericope gives an account of Jesus' warning to His disciples concerning the persecution they will face and encourages them to remain faithful (cf. Matthew 10:17-22).

In the light of this, we are being exhorted to demonstrate Courage and faith when we are confronted with unwarranted circumstances. This is an act of bearing witness to the gospel values as true Christians. 

On another note, we are obliged to support and pray for those persecuted for their faith in God just as the man whom we are celebrating today. 

Finally, like St. Stephen we need to forgive one another no matter the weight of hurt meted upon us, for the scripture says be compassionate as your heavenly father is. + May the good Lord bless His Wordsnin our hearts thriugh Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us pray

Grant, Lord, we pray, that we may imitate what we worship, and so learn to love even our enemies, for we celebrate the heavenly birthday of a man who knew how to pray even for his persecutors. 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 26122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

 December 21st

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Table of the Word 

Song of Solomon 2:8-14

Luke 1:39-45

Theme:

Reflection 

Today, we joyfully proclaim:  "O Óriens" in our acclamation reflecting the dawn of the East, Brightness of the light eternal, and Sun of justice: Pleading for His coming to enlighten all that are in darkness and in the shadow of death. 

It is on account of this, that the Table of the Word called to mind the virtue of love, joy and Visitation. The first reading taken from the Song of Solomon 2:8-14, we read a beautiful passage about the love and longing between two people. A clear example of God's unfathomable love upon us. 

On the other hand, the Gospel pericope according to Evangelist Luke 1:39-45, we read the story of the Visitation, in which Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth and they rejoice together in their pregnancies. This kind gesture of our Mother Mary is an invitation to a life of being there for one another in moment of need. 

However, on this beautiful day in the second part of the Advent spiritual experience we are exhorted to cultivate a deeper sense of love and joy in our hearts. And at the same time the way in which we can be present and supportive to one another when need arises. That is our availability no matter the situation we find ourselves as the shoulder to be lean on by those who are weak. 

Obviously,  it is in living out this Gospel values that we can be convinced that we are on the right track to level the mountains in our hearts and filling the pot holes of malice, envy and hatred that may obstruct the coming of our Saviour into our souls.

 

Finally, let us therefore set out into the street of our domains as Jesus did to put a smile on the face of a soul today, or reachout to those who hurt us or those whom we hurt to seek for reconciliation.

+ May the Lord bless His words in our heart. Amen.

Let us pray

Hear in kindness, O Lord, the prayers of your people, that those who rejoice at the coming of your Only Begotten Son in our flesh, may, when at last he comes in glory, gain the reward of eternal life. Through our Lord Jesus Christ who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 21122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

December 20th

Table of the Word 

Isaiah 7:10-14

Luke 1:26-38

Theme: God is with us. 

Reflection

Today's liturgy of the Word revolves around the themes of faith, trust, and the miraculous occurence.

The first readibg gives an account of  prophet Isaiah announcing the message of hope and promise to King Ahaz, urging him to trust in God's plan (cf. Isaiah 7:10-14) While the gospel pericope according to Evangelist Luke 1:26-38 brings before us the story of the Annunciation, in which the angel Gabriel appears to Mary and announces that she will bear a son, Jesus.

In the course of these readings, we have come to the realization of how faith and trust in God interplay with one another. These great virtues are founded on self-abasement or emptiness by abandoning all to God's providence. 

Beloved in Christ, no matter how difficult our situation may be, let us not forget that God who is "Emmanuel" is still handling the steering. And all that we got to do is to key into the "Fiat" of our Mother Mary believing that God who knows it all will see us through. + May the Lord bless His words in our heart.

Let us pray 

O God, eternal majesty, whose ineffable Word the immaculate Virgin received through the message of an Angel, and so became the dwelling-place of divinity, filled with the light of the Holy Spirit; grant, we pray, that by her example, we may in humility hold fast to your will. Through our Lord Jesus your Son who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen

© The ARCHIVE 20122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

 

December 19th

Mystery of the day: Luminous 

Table of the Word: 

Judges 13:2-7, 24-25a

Luke 1:5-25

Theme: Steadfast Faith and Obedience.

Reflection

Today's readings invite us to reflect on the themes of faith, obedience, and miracle.

In the first reading,  Judges 13:2-7, 24-25a, we read the story of the birth of Samson, a miraculous child born to a barren woman who coparticipated with God's grace.

The gospel pericope taken from Luke 1:5-25 has the story of the announcement of the birth of John the Baptist, another miraculous child born to a barren woman.

However, the two readings gives an account of what could be referred to as: "steadfast faith and obedience," These virtues are characterised with hope amidst uncertainty.  The figures higlighted in the two readings were all lost in the ocean of despair, as conditions surrounding them were hopeless. But with God all things is possible, through their faith and obedience to God, every impossibility became possible.

Beloved in Christ Jesus, in what ways can we demonstrate faith and obedience in our life even when faced with challenging circumstances? Do we also open to unexpected ways for God to work in our life?

Finally, let us therefore ponder on these questions then carefully answer them; for it is in doing this that we can vividly say: "Here we are waiting in anticipation for the coming of the Lord." + May the Lord bless His Words in our heart. 

Let us pray

O God, who through the child-bearing of the holy Virgin graciously revealed the radiance of your glory to the world, grant, we pray, that we may venerate with integrity of faith the mystery of so wondrous an Incarnation and always celebrate it with due reverence. Through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit God forever and ever.  Amen

© The ARCHIVE 19122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

December 18th

Mystery of the day: Glorious 

Table of the Word

Jeremiah 23:5-8

Matthew 1:18-25

Theme: God's promise will never fail.

Reflection

Today's liturgy of the Word presents before us the following themes: hope, promise, and miracle. That is hope for the down trodden, promise for redemption and the miracle which God Himself performed for the love of humanity.

In  the first reading, Jeremiah 23:5-8, prophet Jeremiah announces a message of hope and promise to the people of Israel. He speaks of a future leader who will bring justice and righteousness.

In Matthew 1:18-25 being todaus hospel pericope, we read the story of Joseph's dream, in which an angel appears to him and announces that Mary's child is the Son of God.

However,  placing these two readings side by side, one could decipher that God's hand writing which is in crooked lines spells hope, peace and above all his ever abiding presence among us.

In the light of this, we ought to look out for the ways in which we can cultivate these virtues of hope and trust in God's promises. Keeping in mind the prophecy of Jeremiah: "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  (Jeremiah 29:11). This text is a powerful reminder that God has a good plan for our lives, and that He desires to prosper us and give us hope and a future.

Obviously,  His plans are all good even if we can't see the full picture or its clarity. He desire to prosper us and to give us a fulfilling life. Also,  He is ever ready to give us hope beyond human telling, even in difficult times, and a sense of purpose for the future.

Finally, as children of hope in Christ Jesus let us be more open to the miraculous and unexpected ways God works in our lives. It is in doing this, that we can vividly respond to God's call to faith and obedience, just as Joseph did in today's gospel pericope. 

Let us pray

Grant, we pray, almighty God, that we who are weighed down from of old by slavery beneath the yoke of sin, may be set free by the newness of the long-awaited Nativity of your Only Begotten Son. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity if the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen

© The ARCHIVE 18122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

                  

                December 17th

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Table of the Word 

Genesis 49:2, 8-10

Matthew 1:1-17

Theme: The genealogy of Jesus Christ 

Reflection

Today's readings invite us to reflect on the themes of heritage, identity, and the promise of salvation.

The first reading taken from  Genesis 49:2, 8-10, gives an account of Jacob's blessing on his son Judah, recognizing him as the ancestor of the royal line of David. The gospel pericope on the other hand following Mathew's account gives the genealogy of Jesus, tracing his ancestry back to Abraham and David. (cf. Matthew 1:1-17)

 

In the light of today's liturgy of the Word,  we are being called to the understanding of our spiritual heritage, as Christians or Christ followers; which is expected to shape our spiritual journey.

And the understanding of this ancestry roots brings to our consciousness the values of our spiritual heritage. 

Finally, as we have entered the second part of our Advent experience, let us amidst the passing things, hold fast to what endures as children of light. + May the Lord bless His words in our heart. Amen.

Let us pray

O God, Creator and Redeemer of human nature, who willed that your Word should take flesh in an ever-virgin womb, look with favour on our prayers, that your Only Begotten Son, having taken to himself our humanity, may be pleased to grant us a share in his divinity. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 17122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Monday of the Third Week of Advent

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Table of the Word 

Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17a

Matthew 21:23-27

Theme: A star shall come forth...

Reflection

Today's liturgy of the Word revolves around the themes of  prophecy, leadership, and obedience with Christ at the centre of the reflection. The first reading taken from the book of Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17a, higlighted the coming of a leader who will guide God's people as prophesied by Prophet Balaam in truth and justice. On the other hand, Evangelist Matthew gives an  account of how Jesus' authority was questioned by the Chief priests and the elders, and Jesus' rapt response to their question. (cf. Matthew 21:23-27).

In this Gospel, the Pharisees exemplify the wrong approach to living one's faith, acting as "religious politicians" whose convictions are swayed by self-interest rather than truth. They were already soiled by sentiments, and by seeing Christ's leadership contrary to theirs they were forced to ask Him the source of His power. To their greatest surprise, Jesus gave them a heart-thorned answer. The answer which gives us courage to face the realities of this present life without fear.

Moreover, it is a call on us (Christians), to be openly live our faith, despite the ridicule and suffering it may bring. This Gospel challenges us to profess our faith, particularly when moral truths are under attack, with clarity and charity, regardless of worldly criticism.

Finally, as we are gradually approaching the day of the Lord's coming, may we be awake and alert so as not to be deceived with coated truth which is full of frivolities, but be steadfast to the real truth in Christ Jesus. 

+ May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts. Amen.

Let us pray 

Incline a merciful ear to our cry, we pray, O Lord, and casting light on the darkness of our hearts, visit us with the grace of your Son. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen 

© The ARCHIVE 16122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT YEAR C (GAUDETE SUNDAY)

Theme: Rejoice, again I say rejoice…

Table of the Word:

- Zephaniah 3:14-18a

- Philippians 4:4-7

- Luke 3:10-18

Reflection

Today being the third Sunday of Advent, we light the candle of joy which is also referred to as “the shepherd candle.” Significantly this candle highlights the virtue of joy of the coming of our Saviour Jesus Christ. The joy that the Magnificat projected when our Lady said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour.” (Luke 1:46-47) 

It is in the light of this, that todays reading brings to the doorstep of our hearts the message of joy, as we are anticipating the glorious coming of our Redeemer. The first reading taken from the prophecy of Zephaniah brings the tidings of joy as God promises to gather His people and bring them home. (cf. Zephaniah 3:14-18a). St. Paul in the second reading while addressing the Philippians Church encourages us to rejoice in the Lord with outburst gentleness (cf. Philippians 4:4-7). While the Gospel pericope gives an account of John the Baptist’s invitation to us to get set with adequate preparation for the coming of the Child Jesus through repentance and baptism so that our joy which the Psalmist acclaimed may be found among us (cf. Luke 3:10-18).  

Beloved in Christ Jesus, as we are reflecting on the theme of joy on this third Sunday of Advent (Gaudete Sunday) we are being invited to pause and reflect on: Firstly, what brings joy and hope in our lives? Secondly, how can we prepare my heart and mind for the coming of the Lord? Finally, what are some ways we can show gentleness and kindness to those around us? 

As the central theme of this Sunday reflection suggest Joy as the hub or point of departure as we are in joyful waiting for the glorious return of the Messiah, the Pauline’s message in the second reading gives a swift account of what could be the answer to the above questions.  It will be recalled that, St. Paul wrote this epistle while in prison that despite his difficult circumstances, he was still optimistic. A gentle reminder to each and everyone of us that, no matter what we are going through God’s hand is ever ready to hold us, and his heart continue to beat for our sake. 

Theologically speaking, the concept of joy goes beyond immediate feelings of what we experience that gladdens our heart, but transcends to the level of hope that amidst tough life situation, there is prospect to overcome it because Christ Himself is handling the steering. As the Scripture suggests, the concept of joy which is "simchah" in Hebrew means which "gladness" or "rejoicing." In the Old Testament account, joy is often associated with the presence of God (cf. Psalm 16:11) and the experience of salvation (cf. Isaiah 25:9). And in the New Testament account, joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (cf. Galatians 5:22) and a characteristic of the Christian life (cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:6). Jesus himself is described as the source of joy (cf. John 15:11) and the one who brings joy to those who follow him (cf. John 16:24).

However, dear people of God, as we await with joy our salvation from the shackles of this difficult moments we ought to be focused on God’s presence, keeping in mind that He is over all. There is also need to cultivate the habit of gratitude for all that He has done for us, not that we have merited them, but they are the product of God’s amazing grace. Also, let us practice joy in adversity, that is making a choice to rejoice in the Lord, even when the going is tough and life itself spells blue, for God is always in-charge (cf. Habakkuk 3:17-19). 

In conclusion, let us make sincere effort to share our joy with one another, in words and action as St. Paul exhorted us (cf. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4). +May the Lord bless His words in our heart. Amen. 

Let us pray

O God, who see how your people faithfully await the feast of the Lord’s Nativity, enable us, we pray, to attain the joys of so great a salvation, and to celebrate them always with solemn worship and glad rejoicing. Through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who loves and reigns world without end.  Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 15122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Friday of the Second Week of Advent

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Celebration of the day: St Lucy - Virgin and Martyr

(4th century). She died at  (Sicily), probably during the persecution of Diocletian. From antiquity, her cult spread throughout the Church. Her name is in the Roman Canon.

Table of the Word 

Isaiah 48:17-19

Matthew 11:16-19

Theme: O that you had listened to my commandments! 

Reflection

 Psalm 1:1-2.3.4 and 6 (R.see )

The response to today's Psalm is the resumé of the two readings presented before us in the course of the Liturgy of the Word. Here the response says: "He who follows you, Lord, will have the light of life." (John 8:12). Evangelist John in this text highlighted the need to be attentive, listen and put into action God's detects and ordinances as being proclaimed. 

However, Prophet Isaiah in the first reading invites us to reflect on the importance of listening to God's voice and following his path; stressing that when we follow this path we shall find peace and consolation (cf.Isaiah 48:17-19)

In the gospel pericope, Jesus teaches us about the importance of listening to God's voice and responding to his call (cf. Matthew 11:16-19). 

To crown it all, the Psalmist outlined the fruits of this piuos act of paying attention to the Divine when he says: "He is like a tree that is planted beside the flowing waters, that yields its fruit in due season, and whose leaves shall never fade; and all that he does shall prosper." (Psalm 1:3.4).

Beloved in Christ, in our reflection this morning there are some pertinent questions we ought to answer. These are:

1. How do I listen to God's voice in my life?

2. What are some ways I can follow God's path and find peace?

3. How can I be more attentive to God's call and respond with faith and obedience?

It is when we genuinely respond to these mind-blowing questions that we can vividly say: "We have listen to you O! Lord, in You that we can find Peace." It is through acts of this magnitude that this devout woman whom we are celebrating today exhibited in the coures of her earthly journey. And surely, it pays to serve Jesus.

+ May the Lord bless His words in our hearts. Amen.

Let us pray

May the glorious intercession of the Virgin and Martyr Saint Lucy give us new heart, we pray, O Lord, so that we may celebrate her heavenly birthday in this present age and so behold things eternal. 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 13122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Thursday of the Second Week of Advent

Mystery of the day: Luminous 

Table of the Word 

Isaiah 41:13-20

Matthew 11:11-15

Theme: Fear not...

Reflection

Today's readings invite us to reflect on the promise of God's presence and power in our lives, even when life spells blue and we are left at the crossroad of life. That is why the first reading called to mind God's unfailing promises that we should be courageous, that He will be with us, guiding and strengthening  us. (cf. Isaiah 41:13-20) This text sets  a remarkable tone in a very special way for this holy season of Advent; as Evangelist Matthew gives an account of God's invitation to repentance  and preparing of our hearts for His coming (cf. Matthew 11:11-15)

However, in our day-to-day living experience  we are to be conscious of God's unfathomable love, mercy, and ever abiding presence. We also ought to tailor pur lives according to the detects and ordinances ofbthe Lord so that in this moment of preparation and joyful waiting  we may be found worthy to have the new born King and Prince of Peace in our hearts. + Maybthe Lord bless His words in our hearts. Amen

Let us pray 

Stir up our hearts, O Lord, to make ready the paths of your Only-Begotten Son, that through his coming, we may be found worthy to serve you with minds made pure. Through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit God forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 12122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Wednesday of the Second Week of Advent.

Mystery of the day: Glorious 

Theme: Come to me, all who labour...

Table of the Word

Isaiah 40: 25-31

Matthew 18: 1-5

Reflection: 

Beloved in Christ, may God's love and favour rest upon us all both now and forevermore. Amen.  In our reflection this morning we take a look at God's unfathomable love and mercy upon us on carrying our load and making our burden light. In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches us about the importance of humility and childlike faith, stressing that through this virtue that we can attain eternal bliss (cf. Matthew 18:1-5).

The first reading in continuation of the second book of Isaiah (the exilic writings) God spoke through Prophet Isaiah who reassures us thatHe is the creator of the universe and the sustainer of all life; with emphasis on His power, supremacy, wisdom and care for His people (cf.Isaiah 40:25-31). 

In moment of distress and affliction, God is always there as our comfort and peace. He restores and give us strength in weakness as Prophet Isaiah attest to in the first reading. In Him we shall be renewed and strengthened. 

However, this can be possible only when we as Christians exhibit the virtue of humility as our master and Lord - Jesus Christ. We are also exhorted to be receptive to God's guidance and direction; recalling His words through Prophet Jeremiah:

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11). + May these words be fulfilled in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us pray

Almighty God, who command us to prepare the way for Christ the Lord, grant in your kindness, we pray, that no infirmity may weary us as we long for the comforting presence of our heavenly physician. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity ofbthe Holy Spirit God forever and ever. Amen.

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Tuesday of the Second Week of Advent

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Theme: Comfort my people...

Table of the Word:

Isaiah 40: 1-11

Matthew 18: 12-14

Reflection:

Today being Tuesday of the second week of Advent,  the week where the virtue of peace becomes central theme. The liturgy of the word called to mind the essence of peace and its rudiments. It is in line with this that the Gospel pericope presents Jesus' teaching using the parable of the lost sheep, emphasizing the importance of seeking out and saving those who have gone astray to be led where there is peace and solace (cf.Matthew 18:12-14). This parable highlights God's compassion and mercy upon us.

In the second reading, Prophet Isaiah's announces the coming of a voice crying out in the wilderness, preparing the way for the Lord (cf. Isaiah 40:1-11). As an exilic weitingvan d an extract from the second Isaiah, the passage called to mind the need for spiritual preparation and repentance, so as to be received into that abode where peace has built its tent.

 However, as we are toiling day and night seeking for comfort, peace and solace, we are exhorted to live out the virtue of peace with one another. Reaching out to those in trouble with message of comfort and reconciling with those who hurt us. It is in doing this that the prophecy of Isaiah in the first reading will certainly has a place in our heart. Also, let us bear in mind that through our weaknesses and shortcomings we have become lost and strayed sheep in need of a shepherd who will lead us home. As we continue to wait in joyful hope His solemn coming, it is pertinent to prepare our heart and soul by leveling every mountains in our hearts and filling every pothole of malice, envy and hatred in our lives. 

+ May the Lord bless His words in our hearts. Amen

Let us pray

O God, who have shown forth your salvation to all the ends of the earth, grant, we pray, that we may look forward in joy to the glorious Nativity of Christ. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit God God forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 10122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Monday of the Second Week of Advent 

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Theme: The healing power of Christ

Table of the Word:

Isaiah 35: 1-10

Luke 5: 17-26

Reflection:

In today's Gospel, Jesus heals a paralyzed man, demonstrating his power to forgive sins and restore physical wholeness (cf. Luke 5:17-26). This miracle reveals Jesus' divine authority and his mission to bring salvation.

On the other hand, the first reading presents Isaiah's prophecy which paints a vivid picture of a future time when God will bring joy, healing, and redemption to his people (cf. Isaiah 35:1-10). This passage highlights God's promise to transform the desert into a garden, symbolizing the renewal and restoration that Jesus brings.

Beloved in Christ, in the course of today’s liturgy of the Word we are being called through this holy season of Advent to prepare our hearts to receive healing from our infirmities and forgiveness of our trespasses. Indeed we have all sinned and run short of God's glory. Through these sins we have become sick and infirm. 

It is in the light of this that healing and forgiveness become necessary,  and this could only be found in Jesus our Lord and master. When we are healed we will be restored, something new will happen to us; the newness that Prophet Isaiah announced in the first reading will be manifested in our life situation. 

Finally, we are being invited to to get rid of our weaknesses through perseverance in prayers so as to be reconciled with God and then enter into the new abode God Himself has promised us. +May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts. Amen.

Let us pray:

With purity unblemished, we, your servants may come, as we desire, to celebrate the great mystery of the Incarnation of your Only-Begotten Son. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit God forever and ever. Amen

© The ARCHIVE 07122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Saturday of the First Week of Advent 

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Theme: He will heal the wounds inflicted by his blow.

Table of the Word

Isaiah 30: 19-21, 23-26

Matthew 9: 35-38, 10:1, 5-8

Reflection:

In the course of today’s liturgy of the Word, the Gospel pericope reminds us of Jesus' compassion and concern for the harvest, symbolizing the souls needing salvation (cf. Matthew 9:35-38, 10:1, 5-8). He calls his disciples to share in this salvific mission; so that no soul may lost, except the one that wish so. Still on Isaiah's prophecy, the first reading  speaks of God's promise to guide and protect his people, restoring their joy and prosperity (cf. Isaiah 30:19-21, 23-26).

This therefore called to mind the need for preparation for the way of the Lord as one of those called to work in His vineyard. Though there are many workers , but more are needed. That is why Christ in the course of His public ministry called for collaboration among the disciples for effective ministry for effective conversion.

On the other hand, the prophecy of Isaiah reiterates the compassionate nature of God, who in time will restore the joy and prosperity of His people. 

Moreover, as we are longing for this day in joyful hope, let us be kindfulnof the fact thatvGod is always at work and will continue to handle the steering of ourbfaith journey till we all reach the final destination in Him. + May the Lord in His mercy bless His words in  our hearts. Amen.

Let us pray 

O God, who sent your Only-Begotten Son into this world to free the human race from its ancient enslavement, bestow on those who devoutly await him the grace of your compassion from on high, that we may attain the prize of true freedom. Through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns world without end. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE          07122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Friday of the First Week of Advent 

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Theme: ... you shall no more be ashamed.

Table of the Word

- Isaiah 29:17-24

- Matthew 9:27-31

Reflection:

In today's Gospel, Jesus heals two blind men, demonstrating his power and compassion (cf. Matthew 9:27-31). This passage highlights Jesus' ability to bring light and healing to those in need. While in the firsts reading, Isaiah's prophecy speaks of a future time when God will bring light to the blind and hearing to the deaf (cf. Isaiah 29:17-24). This passage emphasizes God's promise of restoration and salvation.

     One of the disturbing parts of human life is the inability to conquer that which pull one down, or attaining the desired goal. In moment like this, we need light to illuminate our part,  healing and restoration, and the only way is to invite Jesus who is the light of the world to lead, heal and restore us. It is to such time that this holy season of Advent prepares us.

       On the  other hand, we are also invited to be a source of light and hope for others who are struggling or in need as this is a sure way to reciprocate the loving gesture of our God. 

       Finally, in our day-to-day living experience we ought to live out the gospel values in trust of God's  promise of restoration and salvation in the midst of challenges and uncertainties. It is in doing this that that we can rightly be numbered as faithful ones who are joyfully await the return of the Son of God. + May the Lord bless His words in our heart through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us pray 

Stir up your power, we pray, O Lord, and come, that with you to protect us, we may find rescue from the pressing dangers of our sins, and with you to set us free, we may be found worthy of salvation. Who live and reign with God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE          06122024

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Thursday of the First Week of Advent

Mystery of the day: Luminous 

Theme: Seek the Lord while he may be found

Table of the Word

- Isaiah 26:1-6

- Matthew 7:21, 24-27

Reflection: In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches about the importance of building a strong foundation in life, using the parable of the wise and foolish builders (cf. Matthew 7:21, 24-27). This passage emphasizes the need to listen to and follow God's words.

        Isaiah's prophecy still part of the First Isaiah (written before the exile experience) speaks of a future time when God will establish a strong city, symbolizing the kingdom of God (cf. Isaiah 26:1-6). This passage highlights God's promise of salvation and protection.

        It is in the light of this, that I wish to bring to our consciousness the need to seek for Jesus while he may be found as the gospel acclamation proclaimed. Taking cognizance of the gospel pericope, no one can build on a solid foundation without having Jesus as His. It is only when Jesus becomes our foundation that every life situation can be boldy faced.

      However, the basic tips to have him as the foundation is to attentively listen to His words and follow His teachings in our daily journey of Faith. As Prophet Isaiah assured us of a new city awaiting us, we ought to work hard so as to be there; since it is the desire of God for us to be where He is. As we are joyfully wait in hope the coming of the Lord,  may His words moderate our steps and illuminate our path and may the Lord + bless His words in our heart. Amen.

Let us pray

Stir up your power, O Lord, and come to our help with mighty strength, that what our sins impede the grace of your mercy may hasten. Through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE          05122024