DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

TUESDAY OF THE 24TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR 

Mystery of the day: Sorrowful 

Celebration:  Saints Cornelius, Pope, and Cyprian, Bishop, Martyrs

(3rd century). Pope Cornelius defended the faith against the Novatian heretics and, helped by St Cyprian, confirmed his authority. He died in exile. Cyprian was born in Carthage and became its bishop. He was a staunch defender of the Faith and ecclesiastical discipline. He suffered martyrdom during the persecution of Valerian. Their names are included in the Roman Canon.

Liturgical Colour: Red

Table of the Word 

First Reading:  1 Timothy 3:1-13

Gospel: Luke 7:11-17

Theme: Christ the Lord of Life: Conquering death.

And the Lord Whispers: "Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called.” (1 Timothy 6:12)

Reflection

The witness of Cornelius and Cyprian shines as a living echo of Paul’s exhortation to Timothy. Both shepherded the Church during fierce persecution, and both gave their lives as martyrs rather than betray Christ. Their fidelity was not born of human strength but of divine grace.

The Gospel (Luke 7:11–17) narrates the raising of the widow’s son at Nain. Christ reveals Himself as the Lord of life, conquering death with compassion. Cornelius and Cyprian believed in this Lord of life so deeply that they faced death unafraid, knowing it would not have the final word.

Their martyrdom teaches us that fidelity in suffering becomes a seed of hope for the Church. What they proclaimed by their lips, they sealed with their blood. The Scripture furthers says: “Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Rev 2:10).

St. Cyprian wrote: “It is not a disaster to leave this world when you die; the disaster is to lose faith and virtue when you live.” The Church venerates martyrs as the highest witnesses to the faith, the Catechism has this to say: “Martyrdom is the supreme witness given to the truth of the faith"  (CCC 2473).

Beloved in Christ Jesus, remain steadfast in faith, especially in times of trial or misunderstanding. Defend truth with charity, like Cornelius and Cyprian, who balanced firmness with pastoral care.

Finally, Let hope in eternal life give us courage to face life’s struggles without fear. It is in doing this that the good Lord will become the Lord of life who conquers death with mercy. And now the Lord Whispers: "My child, remain steadfast in love and truth, even when the cross is heavy for your crown is eternal."

+ Peace be with you. 

© ARCHIVE 16092025