DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE 13TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR 

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Liturgical Colour: Green

Table of the Word 

First Reading: Genesis 19:15–29

Gospel: Matthew 8:23–27

Theme: Peace be still.

Reflection 

Dearest friend(s) in Christ, with joy I welcome you to the first day in the 7th month in the year of our Lord - 2025. Today is Tuesday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time of the year. In the course of today's Liturgical celebration the Table of the Word presents us with contrasting scenes: the destruction of Sodom in the first reading (cf. Genesis 19:15–29); and the calming of the storm in the Gospel by our Lord (cf.Matthew 8:23–27). Yet, a unifying thread binds them; God's saving power for the faithful and His call to trust in His providence even amidst chaos, doom and judgment.

In the first reading we  see the angels hastening Lot and his family to flee Sodom before destruction falls. Even though Lot lingers, divine mercy persists. The angelic command, “Flee for your life, do not look back,” shows God's unfathomablelove and mercy upon His people. Amidst this, Lot’s wife lingered on the past by looking back. This however becomes a sign of what happens when we look back with attachment to a sinful past.

In the light of this, when life spells blue, we seems to lost out or meet ourselves at the crossroad, there is always an unseen power of stillness and restoration.  This act of God's gratuitousnes is seen in today’s Gospel pericope where Jesus lord over the storm (cf.Matthew 8:23–27).

The Gospel takes us into the boat with Jesus and His disciples. As the storm rages, the disciples panic, forgetting that the Lord of the universe is with them. They cry out: “Lord, save us! We are perishing!” — a prayer of a man in need, trouble or despair. And God whose ear is always open look down with mercy and speak to the raging sea of life: "Be still" and indeed there comes calmness.

This miracle reveals not just His divine power but His presence amid life’s storms. The Fathers of the Church often interpret the boat as the Church, tossed by the tempests of persecution, sin, or trials, yet safely navigated by Christ.

On this, St. Augustine reflects: “When you have Christ in your boat, fear not the waves; for though He may seem to sleep, He is with you.” (Sermon 63). This is an invitation to faith that overcomes fear, trusting that Jesus is always present, even when He seems silent.

Finally, dear brothers and sisters, whether we are caught in a literal storm or battling an interior one, let us remember that God’s mercy still rescues, and Christ still commands the winds. Let us cry out with faith, “Lord, save us!”, and move forward without looking back — for He who calls us is faithful and true; with a hand ready to lift us up from the dust.

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE        01072025

DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE 13TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR 

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Table of the Word 

First Reading: Genesis 18:16–33

Gospel: Matthew 8:18–22

Theme: Interceding with Mercy...

Reflection 

Beloved in Christ, you are most welcome to this day, Monday of the 13th Week in Ordinary Time of the year.  From the Table of the Word we are invited to reflect on the two themes: Intercession and Discipleship drawn from the first reading and the gospel pericope. 

In the first reading taken from the first Book of Pentateuch, an account of Abraham's persistent plea over Sodom and God's merciful response are being captured (cf. Genesis 18:16–33).  Evangelist Matthew in today's Gospel pericope beautifully presents a call to discipleship and detachment (cf. Matthew 8:18–22)

 In the course of Abraham's dialogue with God he raised a fundamental question that calls for deep reflection: “Will you indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked?” (Genesis 18:23). This question borne out of his humility and boldness, while negotiating with God down from fifty to ten righteous people. His persistent intercession reveals the power of prayer, especially when made on behalf of others. And the

Catechism of the Catholic Church has this to say in her teaching:

 “Abraham's heart is attuned to his Lord's compassion... Abraham is a model of the prayer of intercession” (CCC 2571).

This reminds us that the Church, following Abraham’s example, is called to intercede for the world within and outside liturgical Celebrations especially the wayward, the sinful, and the unjust.

Just as Moses, the prophets, and Christ Himself interceded, so too must we stand before God on behalf of our families, communities, and nations. Intercession is not passive it's a loving act of courage and hope.

Moreover, this act of devotedness (intercession) could only be possible  when we understand the cost of discipleship and be ready to pay it. This cost is being presented by the Lord in the gospel this morning during his encounter with the Scribe who chose to follow Him.   “I will follow you, wherever you go.”  And Jesus replies:

 “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” (Matthew 8:20) Another man asks to bury his father first, likely meaning he wishes to delay following Jesus until family obligations are fulfilled. But Jesus responds: “Follow me, and let the dead bury their dead.” (Matthew 8:22)

Dear friend(s) in Christ,  these words are not cold or dismissive; they reflect the urgency and totality of the call to discipleship. Following Christ is not a part-time venture, it is a wholehearted, immediate, and sometimes uncomfortable journey.

The Church Fathers emphasize that to follow Jesus is to embrace poverty of spirit, detachment, and complete trust as St. Gregory the Great wrote: “We should not love anything more than the Giver of all things.”

In today's world, many say “I will follow you, Lord,” but on their own terms. Jesus invites us to put God first, even above noble human duties, reminding us that the Kingdom of God is urgent and eternal.

However, as true disciples we are to balance between praying for the world and living for the Kingdom. The two serve as the mark of a true Christian. Abraham shows us the heart of a priest; Jesus calls us to be prophets of His presence.

Finally, as Christians let our words be seen in our actions as a certification of who we are. Let us pray for one another including those outside the faith and at the same time detaching ourselves from what seems to be a barrier to Jesus' invitation.  

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 30062025

DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

FRIDAY OF THE 12TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR 

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Celebration: Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

Liturgical Colour: White

📚 Table of the Word 

First Reading: Ezekiel 34:11–16

Second Reading: Romans 5:5b–11

Gospel: Luke 15:3–7

Theme: The Heart of Love and Mercy

Reflection

Today, the Church pauses within her Ordinary Season to contemplate the wounded yet ever-beating Heart of Jesus, the fountain of divine love and mercy with the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. It is not simply a devotional celebration; but that which enshrined  in a deep theological reflection on the unfathomable love of God made flesh in Christ and poured out for humanity through His life, death, and resurrection. That is why in one of my thoughtful reflections,  I consider this heart of our Lord to have gotten ear, that is He is not only loving us but listen to every bit of our trouble. 

In the first reading, Prophet Ezekiel described this same heart as: "Tender heart of the Shepherd" (cf. Ezekiel 34:11–16). Here the Lord speaks through the prophet Ezekiel, saying, “I myself will pasture my sheep.” This promise is fulfilled in Christ, the Good Shepherdas St. Luke beautifully captures inn the gospel pericope; whose Sacred Heart seeks out the lost, binds up the wounded, and carries the weak.

The Heart of Jesus is not distant. It is deeply engaged in the reality of our suffering and brokenness. Like a shepherd among his flock, Christ seeks the stray and welcomes the repentant. His love is personal, pursuing, and persevering.

This shepherd imagery connects directly with today’s Gospel in Luke, where Jesus searches for the lost sheep, reflecting the same divine compassion.

While St. Paul in the course of the Second reading gives the résume of this loving gesture while saying: "Christ Died for Us While We Were Still Sinners" (see Romans 5:5b–11). This theological affirmation proves God's love for us in that, while we were still sinners Christ died for us; a move which is the essence of the Sacred Heart - a heart that love without condition and show mercy without limit.

However, the Gospel pericope presents us with the summary of this divine gesture of humility employing the image of a good Shepherd. According to Evangelist Luke, (cf. Luke 15:3–7) Jesus presents the parable of the lost sheep, one of the most tender images of His loving Heart. He says: “There will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents…”

This rejoicing reveals a God whose Heart is not indifferent, but moves with joy and emotion at the return of the lost.

To buttress this, Pope Francis in Misericordiae Vultus notes: “Mercy is the beating heart of the Gospel.”

This parable shows us that the Sacred Heart is not passive, it seeks, finds, and rejoices.

Beloved in Christ, as we celebrate with joy this great solemnity,  let us be conscious that in times of fear, failure, or sin, the Sacred Heart assures us of God’s unfailing love. As St. Margaret Mary Alacoque heard from Jesus:

“Behold this Heart which has so loved men…”

Finally, we are invited to learn from the meekness and humility of the Heart of Christ (cf. Matthew 11:29). In a world often marked by indifference, let us cultivate compassion.

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 27062025

DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE 12TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR 

Mystery of the day: Glorious 

Celebration: Ferial

Liturgical Colour: Green

📚 Table of the Word 

First Reading: Genesis 15:1–12, 17–18

Gospel: Matthew 7:15–20

Theme: Call to discernment and authenticity.

Reflection

Beloved in Christ Jesus, blessings and love of God be upon us both now and forevermore.  Amen.

Today’s table of the Word revolves around reflecfion on God's faithfulness to His promise and invitation to proper discernment and authentic Christian life. 

The first reading drawn from the first Book of Pentateuch gives an account of God's Covenant with Abram, who later became Abraham (cf. Genesis 15:1–18). Here we find Abram in a moment of fear and uncertainty. Despite receiving a divine promise in Genesis 12, he is still childless. Yet God reassures him:

 “Do not be afraid, Abram, I am your shield; your reward will be very great." He further took Abram outside and shows him the stars and made a promise to him: “So shall your descendants be.” (Genesis 15:5)

However, at this crossroad of life, it  became a turning point in salvation history. Abram’s faith is not based on evidence but on trust in God’s word. As the Scripture says: “He believed the Lord, and He credited it to him as righteousness” (Genesis 15:6). 

That is why the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 145–146) upholds this moment as the paradigm of biblical faith, a trust that is total, even when God’s plans are hidden. This covenant, sealed with a sacrificial rite, anticipates the New Covenant in Christ, whose sacrifice on the Cross fulfills all the promises made to Abraham.

On the other hand, today's table of the Word also offers us another opportunity to reflect on proper discernment and authentic discipleship. This is rooted in an exhortation by our Lord who warns: 

 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” (Matthew 7:15)

The danger is real, not everyone who speaks religious words or wears spiritual garments is truly of God; as the ancient aphorism says: "Habit does not make a monk." The test of authenticity, Jesus says, is the fruit:

 “By their fruits you will know them” (Matthew 7:20).

This obviously echoes the biblical principle from Sirach 27:6 which says: “The fruit discloses the cultivation of a tree; so the expression of a thought discloses the cultivation of a man’s mind.”

Moreover, the Church in her teaching has always recognized the need for discernment, especially regarding leadership, doctrine, and spiritual influence. As St. John of the Cross warned, not every vision or prophecy comes from God.

In conclusion, like Abraham, let us trust God even when His promises seem delayed. God does not forget. He has never appoint to disappoint. 

Let us be watchful in the Church and in our lives, discerning truth not by appearance but by the fruit of holiness.

Finally, we are challenged to exhibit a deep and enduring faith as Abraham  so as live out an authentic Christian life. 

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 25062025

DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE 12TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (I)

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Celebration: The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist

Born six months before our Lord, St. John the Baptist was the son of Zachary and Elizabeth, cousin of our Lady. He was the last and greatest of the prophets. As the forerunner of the Savior, his mission was to prepare the Jews for the coming of Christ. When Jesus had come, St. John bore witness to Him before his own followers and encouraged them to follow Him.

Liturgical Colour: white

📚 Table of the Word 

First Reading: Isaiah 49:1–6

Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 139:1b–3, 13–14ab, 14c–15

Second Reading: Acts 13:22–26

Gospel: Luke 1:57–66, 80

Theme: The voice in the desert crying for repentance.

Reflection

The place of St. John the Baptist in the salvation history of man cannot be overemphasized. It goes beyond being the forerunner or precursor of our Lord. John the Baptist was indeed a voice in the crowd, from the scorching heat of the desert to the prison and ended  on a platter for the sake of tye Gospel. This Testament of faith was beautifully captures in Pope Benedict XVI's remark: 

 “John the Baptist is the great prophet who bridges the Old and the New Covenants, who points not to himself but entirely to Christ, the Lamb of God” (Angelus, June 24, 2012).

Beloved in  Christ Jesus, today as a family of God we gather to  celebrate with solemnity the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, a rare liturgical honour shared only by Jesus and Mary. This feast underscores not only the uniqueness of John’s mission, but also the prophetic role he played in salvation history.

The first reading from the prophecy of Isaiah opens with a profound prophetic declaration: “The Lord called me from birth, from my mother’s womb he gave me my name.” (Isaiah 49:1).These words apply fittingly to John the Baptist, whose name and mission were divinely ordained.

Even before his birth, John leapt in the womb of Elizabeth at the presence of the unborn Jesus (cf. Luke 1:41), signifying his prophetic recognition of the Messiah. The Church Fathers, like St. Augustine, saw in this moment a sanctification in utero, the first acknowledgment of Christ by a human being.

Moreover, Prophet Isaiah continues, “I will make you a light to the nations.” While this ultimately points to Christ, John’s role was to prepare the people for this Light. He is, as St. John’s Gospel says, “a witness to the Light” (John 1:7–8).

However, John's whole life was an act of kenosis, self-emptying, which captured in his words: “He must increase, I must decrease” (John 3:30). This utmost humility invites us to a life of accepting the fact that, there is absolutely nothing we have that was not given to us, or the space we are currently occupying that is not borne out of God's gratuitousnes. The life and times of St. John the Baptist was symbolic in nature: he was a voice in desert and a precursor figure for the salvation of man.

In the second reading St. Paul connects John’s mission to God’s unfolding plan: “Before the coming of Jesus, John had preached a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel” (see Acts 13:22–26).

John was the last and greatest of the prophets (cf. Matt 11:11), the forerunner, and a bridge between the Law and the Gospel. The Catechism of the Catholic Church summarizes this beautifully: “John surpasses all the prophets, of whom he is the last… His coming immediately before that of the Messiah, and his role as a forerunner and herald, make him the greatest of those born of woman.”

Finally, dear friend(s) in Christ, the celebration of John’s birth invites us to reflect on our own calling. Each of us is called, like John, to be a voice not for ourselves, but for Christ. In a world clouded by confusion and moral darkness, the Church needs modern-day “John the Baptists”; that is those who prepare the hearts of others for an encounter with Jesus.

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 24062025

DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE 12TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (I)

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Celebration: Ferial 

Liturgical Colour: Green

📚 Table of the Word 

First Reading:  Genesis 12:1–9

Gospel: Matthew 7:1–5

Theme: Judge not, that you be not judged.

Reflection

Dearest friend(s), today's liturgy of the Word invites us to reflect on two themes: the call to step out in faith like Abraham as we can see in the first reading (cf. Genesis 12:1–9);

 and the invitation to interior honesty and humility in judging ourselves before others; being;the résume of today's gospel pericope (cf. Matthew 7:1–5)

However, every journey of faith begins with a detachment and a paradigm shift from the comfort zone to where God will lead, it is a risk adventure due to the uncertainty of the journey. Above all God is always faithful to His Words, that is why today's Gospel acclamation has this to say:  "The word of the Lord is living and active, discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12). He knows the  secret thought of ours, our cares and worries, as in the case of Abraham. Here God asked him to leave everything familiar: his land, his kindred, his father’s house and follow God's promise.

This moment marks a new spiritual era in salvation history. Abram (later Abraham) becomes the father of faith, not because he had all the answers, but because he trusted the promise of God. His obedience set the foundation for the covenant that would bless “all the families of the earth” (Genesis 12:3).

In the same vein, the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) has this to says: “Abraham believed God and walked in His presence and in covenant with Him. The patriarchs, prophets, and certain other Old Testament figures have been and always will be honoured as saints in all the Church’s liturgical traditions.” (CCC 61)

That is why in our reflection today, we too, are called to leave behind the comfort of our spiritual complacency and walk in trust wherever God calls us, whether in vocation, forgiveness, service, or deeper prayer.

We cannot respond to this clarion call without "letting go" ur pride, comfort, joy, all for the sake of peace. This will create a room to avoid the danger of hypocritical Judgment as we are exhorted in the gospel  (cf. Matthew 7:1–5).

In the Gospel, Jesus offers a teaching both challenging and liberating: “Why do you notice the splinter in your brother’s eye but do not perceive the wooden beam in your own?” (Matthew 7:3). 

His teaching is not to reject righteous judgment or fraternal correction. Instead, He condemns hypocrisy, the failure to acknowledge our own faults while scrutinizing others.

The Gospel further place emphasis on interior examination, to see ourselves with humility, and to purify our vision before offering correction. As St. John Chrysostom wrote:

 “Correct yourself first, and then you will know how to correct others.”

This echoes the Church’s teaching on fraternal correction with humility, while weighing our frailties and short comings. 

Finally, let us remove the "log" in our own eyes by examining our hearts before criticizing others. Honest self-assessment is the seed of authentic holiness. Let us avoid rash judgment, especially in a world quick to condemn. Let mercy, not pride, be the measure by which we deal with others.

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 23062025

DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

FRIDAY OF THE 11TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (I)

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Celebration: St. Aloysius Gonzaga, religious
(1568-1591). An Italian Jesuit of a noble family, he died as a result of his devoted and heroic nursing of the plague-stricken.

Liturgical Colour: White

📚 Table of the Word 

First Reading:  : 2 Corinthians 12:1–10

Gospel: Matthew 6:24–34

Theme: Seek ye first his kingdom...

Reflection

Today we join the Mother Church to celebrate the memorial of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, a model of purity, humility, and self-giving love. From the table of the Word for today's liturgy, the two readings call us to a deeper reliance on God’s strength, detachment from wealth, and the pursuit of the Kingdom of God. These themes beautifully align with the life of St. Aloysius, who renounced wealth and privilege to live for Christ alone.

However, St. Paul in the first reading shares a mystical vision of heaven but quickly shifts focus to his "thorn in the flesh", reminding the Corinthians that God’s power is made perfect in weakness (cf.  2 Corinthians 12:1–10), an allusion to the text: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Cor. 12:9). Paul's humility in not boasting about spiritual gifts, but rather about his dependence on grace, a life which mirrors St. Aloysius Gonzaga’s spiritual path. Aloysius, despite noble birth and opportunity for worldly greatness, saw God’s grace as the only true treasure and renounced wealth and status to become a Jesuit novice and care for plague victims.

 It is on this account, that the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) affirms that: “Grace is favour, the free and undeserved help that God gives us to respond to his call…” (CCC 1996) And that: “Humility is the foundation of prayer.” (CCC 2559)

In the same spirit, Jesus in today's Gospel pericope teaches that no one can serve two masters: we cannot serve both God and mammon. He goes further to address human anxiety about food, clothing, and the future: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides” (Matthew 6:33).

The radical simplicity and total trust in God’s provision expressed here found perfect expression in the life of St. Aloysius. His life is a rebuke to materialism and a witness to what it means to “seek first the Kingdom”.

Finally, dearest friend(s), as we celebrate this great man of faith, let us allow his life to challenge our priorities; so that as pilgrims of hope we may at last see Jesus as truly is.

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 21062025

 

DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

FRIDAY OF THE 11TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (I)

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Celebration: Ferial 

Liturgical Colour: Green

📚 Table of the Word 

First Reading:  2 Corinthians 11:18, 21b–30

Gospel: Matthew 6:19–23

Theme: Our hearts... our treasure. 

Reflection

Today's table of the Word revolves around our attitudes toward material and spiritual treasures.  That is why our Lord in the gospel pericope according to Evangelist Matthew warns us about misplaced priorities reminding us that our hearts follow our treasures (cf. Matthew 6:19–23). While St. Paul on the other way round recounts his hardships to show what true apostolic integrity looks like and where his heart belongs (cf. 2 Corinthians 11:18, 21b–30). 

In his defence he listed the difficulties he has passed through; exhorting us not to boast in pride but in authentic discipleship. He stressed that his true treasure is Christ crucified, which is the hallmark of genuine apostolic ministry. In his affirmation he says: "If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness." (2 Cor. 11:30)

This readings posed a great challenge on us especially the ministers of the Word not to measure our calling by the level of  comfort, fame, or prosperity, but by fidelity to Christ, even in suffering. That is why the Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “The way of perfection passes by way of the Cross. There is no holiness without renunciation and spiritual battle.” (CCC 2015).

However, as a strong backing to this simple way of life, our Lord Jesus teaches us the importance of storing up heavenly treasures rather than earthly ones (cf. Matthew19:21). No wonder Pope Benedict XVI in his address to German Youth in 2011, avers: “The world offers you comfort. But you were not made for comfort. You were made for greatness.”

Moreover, the Catechism teaches that detachment from riches is essential for entering the Kingdom of God: “The Lord grieves over the rich because they find their consolation in the abundance of goods… The precept of detachment from riches is obligatory for entrance into the Kingdom.” (CCC 2547)

Beloved in Christ, our life is a pilgrimage, and every day we are building either an eternal inheritance or storing up fading riches. Where is your treasure? Is your heart fixed on heaven or shackled by the pleasures of this passing world?

Finally, let today be a reminder that spiritual clarity, sacrificial love, and heavenly investment are what make a Christian shine in the world’s darkness.

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 20062025

DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

THURSDAY OF THE 11TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (I)

Mystery of the day: Luminous 

Celebration: Ferial 

Liturgical Colour: Green

📚 Table of the Word 

First Reading:  2 Corinthians 11:1–11

Gospel: Matthew 6:7–15

Theme: Forgive us our trespasses...

Reflection

Dearest friend(s), today we are invited to reflect on the theme of genuine service, selfless love, and the power of prayer and forgiveness. We are called to examine the motives behind our actions, especially in ministry and interpersonal relationships. St. Paul reminds us that the Gospel must be preached with sincerity and without seeking personal gain, while Jesus teaches us to pray with simplicity and to forgive as we wish to be forgiven. It is on account of this that I invite you to reflect with me on the theme: "Forgive our trespasses."  This theme which is rooted in love, one of the principal virtues in Christian living challenges us to a life of humility and self-denial.

Obviously,  it is noted that unforgiving Spirit borne out of pride, a feeling that we are better than others, why should he or she step on my toes? Is my rank or file so hidden before Him? And other mind blowing questions that boast our ego. This is captured in St. Paul's exhortation this morning when he defended his apostleship, not out of pride, but to protect the Corinthians from being led astray by "false apostles" (cf. 2 Cor. 11:13). He emphasizes that his service to them was free of charge, reflecting his integrity and the generosity of the Gospel. Here Paul’s words remind us that ministry is not a business but a dutiful service without charge. In defence of this that, the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) teaches that evangelization is a duty of love, not gain (cf. CCC 905).

This humble virtue is accounted for in the gospel pericope as the Lord gave His disciples a model of prayer  devoid of many words, not a Pharasaic pattern where our ego is being displayed instead of humble service of forgiving one another. In the same spirit, the General Instruction of the Liturgy of the Hours encourages that our prayer be rooted in the psalms and Scriptures, not in excessive verbosity (cf. GILH 14). 

 However, in the course of this prayer (Our Father) taught by our Lord we are exhorted to a life of:

- Dependence on God (“Give us this day our daily bread”),

- Reconciliation (“Forgive us… as we forgive…”),

- Spiritual warfare (“Deliver us from evil”).

And most striking is Jesus’ postscript: “If you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions” (Matt. 6:15). Forgiveness is not optional, it is the measure of our spiritual maturity and a prerequisite for divine mercy (cf. Sirach 28:1–5; CCC 2838–2845). This therefore becomes the summary of this day reflection.  For it is in forgiving one another that we are being forgiven and every barrier is broken.

Finally beloved in Christ, God has freely given us His love, mercy, and grace. Our response should be freely giving to others in service of charity, in forgiveness, and in sincere prayer. As we pray the Lord’s Prayer today, may it not be just words, but a reflection of our hearts and a challenge to our lifestyle. May we echo St. Paul’s selflessness and Christ’s teaching on forgiveness.

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 19062025

DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE 11TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (I)

Mystery of the day: Joyful 

Celebration: Ferial 

Liturgical Colour: Green

📚 Table of the Word 

 First Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:6–11

Gospel: Matthew 6:1–6, 16–18

Theme: You will be enriched in every way for great generosity.

Reflection

Obviously,  we are in an era where 5 Million Naira (N5,000,000) is budgeted for media and publicity, while a chicken change of Five Hundred Thousand Naira (N500,000) is meant for charity outreach. Why is it so? We wish to have wider publicity, to be celebrated as "Global philanthropist," to receive thumb ups and thousands of likes from various social media handles. Today, the Holy Scripture has bluntly condemned this "Pharasiac attitude" as Christ rightly says: 

"Thus, when you give alms, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward" (see Matthew 6:1–6, 16–18).

This exhortation points to the fact that, our almsgiving, prayer, and fasting which are hallmarks of Christian piety must not be mere performances. That is why Christ in His teaching calls us to live not for applause, but for the Father’s reward as He said: “Your Father who sees in secret will reward you;” not once but three consecutive times (cf. Matthew 6:4, 6, 18).

However, this “secret place” is not only a physical one. It is the interior space where grace works quietly, where intentions are purified, and where the soul meets God in truth. To buttress this, Pope Benedict XVI beautifully captures this exhortation in few words:  “True worship is not a show,

it involves the whole heart, and not just outward forms” (Benedict XVI, Jesus of Nazareth, Vol. I).

On the other hand, the Psalmist reechoes this quiet righteousness: “Blessed the man who is gracious and lends to those in need… He gives to the poor; his justice shall endure forever” (Psalm 112:5, 9).

This actually serves as the reminder of how Holy men and women lived out the Gospel value. That is why the Catechism tells us that such works of charity are not optional; they are the fruits of our faith (cf. CCC 1829, 2044).

In conclusion, 

- when we give, may it be out of love, not vanity.

- When we pray, may it be in intimacy, not display.

- When we fast, may it be to open space for grace, not to appear holy.

Let us be like the poor widow, who gave in secret (cf. Markk 12:43); like Mary, who treasured all things in her heart (cf. Luke 2:19); like Jesus, who often withdrew to pray (cf. Luke 5:16). And so, let us live generously, pray quietly, and fast humbly, not to earn God’s love, but to respond to it. As St. Augustine beautifully said:

 “God gives where He finds empty hands.”

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 18062025

DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE 11TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (I)

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Celebration: Ferial 

Liturgical Colour: Green

Table of the Word 

 First Reading:  2 Corinthians 8:1-9

Gospel: Matthew 5:43-48

Theme: Love in action

Reflection 

In our day-to-day living experience, we speak the language of love most often than putting the love itself into action. We see love in every creature but we fail to reciprocate the gesture either through our selfishness or negligence. Be that as it may, we are still beneficiaries of this Divine gratuitousnes. 

It is against this backdrop that St. Paul in his second epistle to the Corinthians Church being an extract of today's first reading exhorted us to prove by the earnestness of others that our love also is genuine (cf.  2 Corinthians 8:1-9).

However, how genuine is our love? To answer this, today's Gospel pericope according to Evangelist Matthew beautifully captures the practical motif of love when He gave an account of our Lord's teaching: "But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,..." (see Matthew 5:43-48).

Beloved in Christ Jesus, today's central messages is rooted in "active love" and not "verbal or passive kind of love." That is love beyond barrier as we made reference to yesterday's reflection (cf. I John 3:18).  Love that counts no wrong, love without reason or condition, love without expectation and above all, love above all as God Himself did by sending His begotten Son as a ransom for man (cf. John 3:16).

Finally, let love speaks in our actions,the  kind of love that is not emotional or reciprocal but radical and divine; which goes beyond sex, race and age.

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 17062025

DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE 11TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR (I)

Mystery of the day: Joyful

Celebration: Ferial 

Liturgical Color: Green

Table of the Word 

 First Reading:  2 Corinthians 6:1-10

Gospel: Matthew 5:38–42

Theme: Love Beyond Boundaries.

Reflection 

Jesus teaches: “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, do not resist the one who is evil.” He calls for radical nonviolence and generous love (cf. Matthew 5:38–42).

Here Jesus turns worldly justice on its head. The lex talionis ("eye for eye") was meant to limit revenge, but Jesus goes further: He abolishes revenge altogether.

He teaches: Turn the other cheek; Go the extra mile; Give even more than what is asked.

This is not weakness, but the power of love and restraint,  the very heart of the Gospel. It challenges us to go beyond retaliation and to embrace mercy and generosity, even when wronged.

In a world where revenge seems justified and power often goes unchecked, the Christian is called to a higher law, which is the law of love, which the first reading make emphasis to, stressing that with all difficulties and challenges we are going through only Love conquers with the grace of God not taken for granted (cf. 2 Corinthians 6:1-10).  For this grace bestowed on us serves as an unction to love beyond limit and not to pay evil for evil as St. Paul in his epistle to the Roman's Church admonished:  “Do not repay anyone evil for evil... Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:17–21)

And the Book of Proverbs added:  “Do not say, ‘I will repay evil’; wait for the Lord, and He will deliver you.” (Proverbs 20:22).

However, following the footstep of Jesus St. Peter in his first letter says that, 

 He (Jesus) did not retaliate when insulted but entrusted Himself to the One who judges justly (cf.1 Peter 2:23.

Finally, beloved in  Christ Jesus let our judgement on others begins with us, it is then that we will love unconditionaly and beyond boundaries. 

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 16062025