DIVINE WHISPER with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

WEDNESDAY OF THE 33RD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR

Celebration: Ferial

Table of the Word
First Reading:  2 Maccabees 7:1, 20–31
Gospel: Luke 19:11–28

Theme: Fidelity in Stewardship.

Reflection

Today's first reading taken from the Book of  2 Maccabees 7:1, 20–3 presents us with a story of a heroic mother and her seven sons who chose faithfulness to God over life itself. The mother, filled with noble courage and trust in the Creator, encourages her sons to remain steadfast, even in the face of torture. Her words reveal a profound theology: “It was the Creator of the world who formed humankind… He will in his mercy give life back to you again.” Indeed, it was a testimony to resurrection hope, a faith that transcends suffering.

According to Evangelist Luke in today's Gospel pericope, he gives an account of Jesus' parable of the talents (minas) - an invitation to active, responsible stewardship. While the King is away, each servant must invest what has been entrusted. The faithful servants act with courage and initiative; the fearful servant hides his gift, and faces judgment (cf. Luke 19:11–28)

However, the Gospel teaches that God expects our gifts to bear fruit,  faithfulness is shown not in preservation but in missionary daring.

Dearest friends in Christ,  today, the Word of God draws our hearts to two powerful realities:

- Courageous fidelity and responsible stewardship.

The mother in Maccabees embodies the Church’s ancient conviction that true faith is proven not in comfort, but in perseverance. She becomes a symbol of the Church herself, a mother who forms her children to choose God above all else. Her witness echoes in the saints and martyrs who “loved not their lives even unto death” (Rev 12:11).

In the Gospel, Jesus shifts the focus from persecution to responsibility. Every Christian receives a “mina” a gift, a charism, a mission. The question is not whether we have enough, but whether we are willing to use what we have been given. The idle servant represents the believer who plays safe, who buries grace out of fear or complacency. As Fr. Andy Paulinus often said: "Talent for common good" - a call to put into use every talent for the common good of all. 

In the light of this, that God hentmy whispers: “Be faithful like the mother of Maccabees; be fruitful like the good servants.”

Here He desires courage, creativity, and commitment. Even in ordinary life,  our work, service, kindness, sacrifices, we are investing the gifts entrusted to us. 

Finally, let us not be afraid to risk ourselves for the Gospel.

+ Peace be with you.

© ARCHIVE 19112025