DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

THURSDAY OF THE 23RD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR 

Mystery of the day: Luminous 

Celebration: Ferial 

Liturgical Colour: Green 

Table of the Word 

First Reading: Colossians 3:12-17

Gospel: Luke 6:27-38

Theme: Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.

And the Lord Whispers: “Put on, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” (Colossians 3:12).

Reflection

St. Paul paints a beautiful picture of the Christian life, like putting on a garment. As God’s beloved, we are called to “clothe” ourselves with virtues that reflect Christ: compassion, humility, gentleness, forgiveness, and above all, love which binds everything together.

The heart of Christian discipleship is not mere words but a transformed character. When love rules our hearts, peace reigns in our communities, and gratitude shapes our worship. This “new clothing” makes us true witnesses of Christ in a divided and hurting world.

“Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony” (Col 3:14). 

In the same spirit, our Lord and Saviour in His teaching as recorded by Evangelist Luke reminded us of the need to love, be charitable, be merciful and give a leaning shoulder to the weak when He said: "Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.”

That is why St. Augustine once said: “Love, and do what you will.” Genuine love is the sure garment that guides all actions. And the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) reaffirmed this: “The fruits of charity are joy, peace, and mercy; charity demands beneficence and fraternal correction; it is benevolence; it fosters reciprocity and remains disinterested and generous.” (CCC 1829)

However, on this day we are invited:

- to begin each day by “putting on” Christ through prayer and intentional acts of love.

- to Practice patience and forgiveness, especially in difficult relationships.

- and let gratitude guide your prayer, ending the day by giving thanks for God’s blessings.

Finally, the Lord gently whispers to us:  “Clothe yourself in My love, My child, and you will shine as a living witness of My peace, mercy, and joy.”

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 11092025