DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE FIFTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME 

Mystery of the day: Glorious 

Celebration of the day: Ferial 

Table of the Word

RI.Genesis 2:4-9.15-17

Resp. Psalm: Psalm104:1-2a.27-28.29bc-30 (R. 1a)

Gospel: Mark 7:14-23

Theme: Purifying the inner impurities

Reflection  

On this day, Wednesday in the fifth week of Ordinary Time, Year 1; the Table of the Word presents before us the acknowledgment of the completion of the creation account in the first reading (cf. Genesis 2:4-9.15-17). While the Gospel centres on a call to inner purity and the source of defilement which is the centre of our reflection this morning (cf. Mark 7:14-23). 

However, Jesus teaches that it is not external things, like food or ritual laws, that defile a person but rather what comes from the heart, including evil thoughts, immorality, theft, and envy.

As we reflect on this, it becomes clear that true purity comes from a transformed heart—one that is guided by love, compassion, and a desire to follow God’s will. The Gospel challenges us to examine our own hearts and to be honest about the areas where we may need healing; for we are all sick of one spiritual ailments or the other. Thus posing a question: Are there thoughts, attitudes, or behaviours that need to be purified so that we can live out our Christian calling more fully?

We are equally  reminded of the importance of prayer (the divine communion) and seeking God's grace to cleanse us from within. It is not through external observances alone (the law) that we become holy, but through an ongoing relationship with God that shapes our inner being (personal encounter of God as He is). As the Psalmist says: "Create in me a new heart, ..." (Psalm 51:10)

Let us pray today for the courage and humility to confront what lies within us, to repent of what separates us from God, and to open ourselves to His transforming grace and power. 

Finally, may our hearts reflect His goodness, and may we be cleansed so as to be witnesses of that source of purity the world needs.

Peace be with you and + May the Lord bless His words in our hearts. Amen.

Let us pray

Almighty and eternal God, we thank you for the many blessings you bestowed upon us. We pray O! to give us the grace to purify every inner impurity that threaten our relationship. 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  12022025