DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM
TUESDAY OF THE SEVENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Mystery of the day: Sorrowful
Celebration of the day: Ferial
Table of the Word
RI. Sirach 2:1-11
Resp. Psalm: Psalm 37:3-4.18-19.27-28.39-40 (R. see 5)
Gospel: Mark 9:30-37
Theme: Nyeneime-ke-Obong (Await God’s patience)
Reflection:
In today's readings, we hear about themes like patience, faith, trust and love of God. This therefore ignites in me the thought of reflecting still on the richness of some of the native names or phrases in Ibibio cultural millieu. From the table of the Word, we are being presented with various episodes which prompted the choice of the theme for reflection: Nyeneime-ke-Obong (Await God’s patience)
However, the frisr reading presents before us teachings about the trials and challenges of life, and how to remain faithful to God through them. The passage offers profound wisdom on the importance of endurance, trust in God, and the refining nature of suffering.(cf. Sirach 2:1-11). The text further assured us of God's unfathomable love and compassion for those who remain faithful. This also come with the promise of being rewarded with strength to hold the fort amidst uncertainty.
The gospel pericope gives us an account of our Lord's impactful teaching about His paschal mysteries of passion, death and resurrection; as well as response to the curiosity of the disciples on who is the greatest in the kingdom of God (cf. Mark 9:30-37). This teaching shows that, true greatness comes from serving and welcoming those who are often overlooked or undervalued by society.
Consequently, reflecting on these texts, we are being exhorted to imbibe within us the virtue of patience in the Lord and perseverance in our struggles, thus the theme: Nyeneime-ke-Obong (Await God’s patience). The first reading called to mind our own response to life's challenging difficulties. It also offers us the approach to get rid of it. When faced with struggles, let us remember to keep our eyes fixed on God, knowing that He is refining us and making us more like Him. May we find strength in the knowledge that our trials are not in vain, but are part of the process by which we are drawn closer to our Creator. Let us also keep in mind that, God is present in our suffering and that enduring trials with patience and trust in Him leads to spiritual maturity.
Finally, what is our life's passion or goal? If this longing does not reflects Christ’s attributes then we have missed the mark. For in Him perseverance is found, patience and love were part of his public ministry. Let us therefore not be driven by pride, selfish ambition or a desire for vain glory and fame that will fade in a short while; but crave with passion for life and accolades beyond that of this ephemeral existence. Let us be humble and await God's patience, else something will humble us.
Peace be with you and + May the Lord bless His words in our hearts. Amen.
Let us pray
Most merciful Jesus, the source of strength and power, we thank you for the many blessings we receive. Grant us we pray the grace to be steafast in our trust and faith in you. We make our prayers through Our Lord Jesus Christ Your Son who loves and reigns with you in the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen
© The ARCHIVE 25022025
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