ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph

Table of the Word:

Malachi 3:1–4, 23–24 (4:5–6)

Luke 1:57–66

Theme: Preparing the Way of the Lord: Turning Hearts in Hopeful Expectation

Reflection

Today's liturgy turns our attention to preparation and fulfillment. Through the prophet Malachi, God promises to send a messenger who will prepare the way of the Lord and turn hearts back to Him, restoring relationships between generations (cf. Malachi 3:1–4, 23–24 (4:5–6). This promise finds its fulfillment in the birth of John the Baptist, whose arrival fills his family and neighbours with awe and holy fear.

In the Gospel pericope according to Evangelist Luke 1:57–66, the unexpected naming of the child as John -“God is gracious”- signals that God is acting decisively in history. Even before his public ministry, John’s life points beyond himself to the Lord who is coming. It is against this background that Advent season  reminds us that God often works through humble, hidden beginnings to accomplish great things.

In these final days before Christmas, we are invited to allow God to purify our hearts, heal broken relationships, and awaken in us a deeper sense of wonder at His saving plan.

+ May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Let us pray

Almighty ever-living God, as we see how the Nativity of your Son according to the flesh draws near, we pray that to us, your unworthy servants, mercy may flow from your Word, who chose to become flesh of the Virgin Mary and establish among us his dwelling, Jesus Christ our Lord. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,  God forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 23122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph

Table of the Word:

1 Samuel 1:24–28

Luke 1:46–56

Theme: The Humble Exalted, the Faithful Remembered. 

Reflection

As Advent draws close to its fulfilment, today’s readings invite us into the spirit of grateful surrender and joyful praise.

In the first reading taken from1 Samuel 1:24–28, Hannah offers back to God the child she longed for and received through prayer. Samuel is returned to the Lord, teaching us that every gift from God is meant not for possession, but for mission and faithful stewardship.

In the Gospel pericope, Evangelist Luke presents in clarity Mary’s Magnificat which echoes this same spirit (cf. Luke 1:46–56).

 She recognizes God’s mighty deeds in her lowliness and bursts into praise. Her song proclaims a God who lifts the humble, fills the hungry, and remains faithful to His promises.

True readiness for Christ is found in humility, gratitude, and total trust in God. Like Hannah and Mary, we are called to offer ourselves and our blessings back to the Lord, rejoicing that He is faithful in every generation. 

+ May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Let us pray

O God, who, seeing the human race fallen into death, willed to redeem it by the coming of your Only Begotten Son, grant, we pray, that those who confess his Incarnation with humble fervour may merit his company as their Redeemer. Through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit God forever and ever.  Amen

© The ARCHIVE 22122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph for December 19

Table of the Word:

Judges 13:2-7, 24-25a

Luke 1:5-25

Theme: Steadfast Faith and Obedience.

Reflection

Today's readings invite us to reflect on the themes of faith, obedience, and miracle.

In the first reading,  Judges 13:2-7, 24-25a, we read the story of the birth of Sampson, a miraculous child born to a barren woman who coparticipated with God's grace.

The gospel pericope taken from Luke 1:5-25 has the story of the announcement of the birth of John the Baptist, another miraculous child born to a barren woman.

However, the two readings give an account of what could be referred to as: "steadfast faith and obedience," These virtues are characterised with hope amidst uncertainty.  The figures highlighted in the two readings were all lost in the ocean of despair, as the conditions surrounding them were hopeless. But with God all things are possible, through their faith and obedience to God, every impossibility became possible.

Beloved in Christ Jesus, in what ways can we demonstrate faith and obedience in our lives even when faced with challenging circumstances? Are we also open to unexpected ways for God to work in our lives?

Finally, let us therefore ponder on these questions then carefully answer them; for it is in doing this that we can vividly say: "Here we are waiting in anticipation for the coming of the Lord." + May the Lord bless His Word in our hearts. 

Let us pray

O God, who through the child-bearing of the holy Virgin graciously revealed the radiance of your glory to the world, grant, we pray, that we may venerate with integrity of faith the mystery of so wondrous an Incarnation and always celebrate it with due reverence. Through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit God forever and ever.  Amen

© The ARCHIVE 19122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph

December 18

Table of the Word

Jeremiah 23:5-8

Matthew 1:18-25

Theme: God's promise will never fail.

Reflection

Today's liturgy of the Word presents before us the following themes: hope, promise, and miracle. That is hope for the down trodden, promise for redemption and the miracle which God Himself performed for the love of humanity.

In  the first reading, Jeremiah 23:5-8, he announces a message of hope and promise to the people of Israel. He speaks of a future leader who will bring justice and righteousness.

In Matthew 1:18-25 being today's Gospel pericope, we read the story of Joseph's dream, in which an angel appears to him and announces that Mary's child is the Son of God.

However,  placing these two readings side by side, one could decipher that God's hand writing which is in crooked lines spells hope, peace and above all his ever abiding presence among us.

In the light of this, we ought to look out for the ways in which we can cultivate these virtues of hope and trust in God's promises. Keeping in mind the prophecy of Jeremiah: "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  (Jeremiah 29:11). This text is a powerful reminder that God has a good plan for our lives, and that He desires to prosper us and give us hope and a future.

Obviously,  His plans are all good even if we can't see the full picture or its clarity. He desire to prosper us and to give us a fulfilling life. Also,  He is ever ready to give us hope beyond human telling, even in difficult times, and a sense of purpose for the future.

Finally, as children of hope in Christ Jesus let us be more open to the miraculous and unexpected ways God works in our lives. It is in doing this, that we can vividly respond to God's call to faith and obedience, just as Joseph did in today's gospel pericope. 

Let us pray

Grant, we pray, almighty God, that we who are weighed down from of old by slavery beneath the yoke of sin, may be set free by the newness of the long-awaited Nativity of your Only Begotten Son. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen

© The ARCHIVE 18122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph

December 17

Table of the Word 

Genesis 49:2, 8-10

Matthew 1:1-17

Theme: The genealogy of Jesus Christ 

Reflection

Today's readings invite us to reflect on the themes of heritage, identity, and the promise of salvation.

The first reading taken from  Genesis 49:2, 8-10, gives an account of Jacob's blessing on his son Judah, recognizing him as the ancestor of the royal line of David. The gospel pericope on the other hand following Mathew's account gives the genealogy of Jesus, tracing his ancestry back to Abraham and David. (cf. Matthew 1:1-17)

 

In the light of today's liturgy of the Word,  we are being called to the understanding of our spiritual heritage, as Christians or Christ followers; which is expected to shape our spiritual journey.

And the understanding of this ancestry roots brings to our consciousness the values of our spiritual heritage. 

Finally, as we have entered the second part of our Advent experience, let us amidst the passing things, hold fast to what endures as children of light. + May the Lord bless His words in our heart. Amen.

Let us pray

O God, Creator and Redeemer of human nature, who willed that your Word should take flesh in an ever-virgin womb, look with favour on our prayers, that your Only Begotten Son, having taken to himself our humanity, may be pleased to grant us a share in his divinity. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 17122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Tuesday of the Third Week of Advent

Table of the Word

Zephaniah 3:1–2, 9–13

Matthew 21:28–32

Theme: The Nearness of Our Redeemer.

Reflection

As we have come to the end of the first part of Advent season, today’s readings confront us with a call to conversion of heart and authentic obedience.

In the first reading, Zephaniah denounces rebellion and pride, yet offers a consoling promise: God will purify His people and leave a humble and lowly remnant who trust in the Lord. Salvation begins not with self-assertion, but with humility and openness to God’s mercy.

In the Gospel pericope according to Evangelist Matthew, Jesus presents the parable of the two sons. The one who initially refuses but later repents does the father’s will, while the one who readily agrees but fails to act stands condemned. True readiness for the coming of the Lord is shown not in words or appearances, but in repentance and concrete action.

As the Lord draws near, Advent invites us to examine our lives honestly. Are we content with good intentions and religious language, or are we willing to change, obey, and bear fruit? God’s kingdom is open to all who humbly turn back to Him, even those once considered far away.

Beloved in Christ Jesus, how prepared are we to receive the Messiah? The preparation goes beyond the outward signs of feeling the pot holes on our streets, repainting houses, getting new wears and the rest of preparations but inward readiness, as the Redeemer is near.

Finally, let us get set to welcome the Prince of peace and the king of kings. 

+ May the Lord bless His words in our hearts. Amen.

Let us pray

O God, who through your Only Begotten Son have made us a new creation, look kindly, we pray, on the handiwork of your mercy, and at your Son’s coming cleanse us from every stain of the old way of life. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen 

© The ARCHIVE 16122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph

Monday of the Third Week of Advent

Table of the Word

Isaiah 35:1–10

Luke 5:17–26

Theme: He strengthens...

Reflection

As Advent draws closer to its climax, today’s readings are filled with hope, healing, and joyful anticipation. The prophet Isaiah paints a radiant picture of renewal: deserts blooming, the weak strengthened, the fearful reassured (cf. Isaiah 35:1–10).

God himself is coming to save His people. Advent assures us that barrenness, whether spiritual, emotional, or social is never the final word.

In the Gospel pericope taken from Luke 5:17–26, Jesus reveals how salvation arrives. A paralyzed man is brought to him by friends whose faith refuses to be hindered by obstacles. Before healing the man’s body, Jesus heals his deeper paralysis - sin reminding us that true restoration begins within. Advent invites us to carry one another to Christ in faith, prayer, and love.

This season calls us to rise from discouragement and spiritual paralysis. The Lord is already at work, restoring dignity, forgiving sins, and opening paths where none seemed possible. Like the healed man, we are called not only to walk again, but to glorify God with renewed lives.

+ May the Lord bless His words in our hearts. Amen.

Let us pray

Incline a merciful ear to our cry, we pray, O Lord, and casting light on the darkness of our hearts, visit us with the grace of your Son. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen 

© The ARCHIVE 15122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph

Saturday of the Second Week of Advent

Table of the Word

Sirach 48:1-4.9-11b

Matthew 17:10-13

Theme: Preparing the Way of the Lord.

Reflection

The liturgy today places before us the powerful figure of Elijah, the prophet of fire. In the Book of Sirach, Elijah is portrayed as one consumed with zeal for God, a fearless voice who called a wayward people back to covenant fidelity. He is remembered not only for his mighty deeds but also for his mission of reconciliation, to turn hearts back, to restore families, and to prepare the people for the decisive intervention of God.

In the Gospel, Jesus reveals that this prophetic mission did not remain in the past. Elijah has already come in the person of John the Baptist, who prepared the way for the Messiah. Yet, like the prophets before him, John was misunderstood and rejected. This rejection foreshadows the suffering of the Son of Man Himself. Advent thus reminds us that God’s saving plan often unfolds through humility, sacrifice, and faithful witness rather than worldly power.

As we await the coming of Christ, we are invited to share in the prophetic task of Elijah and John the Baptist: to prepare the Lord’s way by repentance, reconciliation, and courageous witness to the truth.

+ May the Lord bless His words in our hearts. Amen.

Let us pray

May the splendour of your glory dawn in our hearts, we pray, almighty God, that all shadows of the night may be scattered and we may be shown to be children of light by the advent of your Only-Begotten Son.  Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen 

© The ARCHIVE 13122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph

Friday of the Second Week of Advent

Table of the Word

Isaiah 48:17-19

Matthew 11:16-19

Theme: O that you had listened to my commandments! 

Reflection

The response to today's Psalm is the resumé of the two readings presented before us in the course of the Liturgy of the Word. Here the response says: "He who follows you, Lord, will have the light of life." (John 8:12). Evangelist John in this text highlighted the need to be attentive, listen and put into action God's detects and ordinances as being proclaimed. 

However, Prophet Isaiah in the first reading invites us to reflect on the importance of listening to God's voice and following his path; stressing that when we follow this path we shall find peace and consolation (cf. Isaiah 48:17-19)

In the gospel pericope, Jesus teaches us about the importance of listening to God's voice and responding to His call (cf. Matthew 11:16-19). 

To crown it all, the Psalmist outlined the fruits of this piuos act of paying attention to the Divine when he says: "He is like a tree that is planted beside the flowing waters, that yields its fruit in due season, and whose leaves shall never fade; and all that he does shall prosper." (Psalm 1:3.4).

Beloved in Christ, in our reflection this morning there are some pertinent questions we ought to answer. These are:

1. How do I listen to God's voice in my life?

2. What are some ways I can follow God's path and find peace?

3. How can I be more attentive to God's call and respond with faith and obedience?

It is when we genuinely respond to these mind-blowing questions that we can vividly say: "We have listen to you O! Lord, in You that we can find Peace." 

Finally, it pays to serve Jesus.

+ May the Lord bless His words in our hearts. Amen.

Let us pray

May the glorious intercession of the Virgin and Martyr Saint Lucy give us a new heart, we pray, O Lord, so that we may celebrate her heavenly birthday in this present age and so behold things eternal. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen 

© The ARCHIVE 12122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Thursday of the Second Week of Advent

Table of the Word
Isaiah 41:13-20
Matthew 11:11-15

Theme: Fear not...

Reflection
Today's readings invite us to reflect on the promise of God's presence and power in our lives, even when life spells blue and we are left at the crossroads of life.
That is why the first reading called to mind God's unfailing promises that we should be courageous, that He will be with us, guiding and strengthening us. (cf. Isaiah 41:13-20)
This text sets  a remarkable tone in a very special way for this holy season of Advent; as Evangelist Matthew gives an account of God's invitation to repentance  and preparing of our hearts for His coming (cf. Matthew 11:11-15)

However, in our day-to-day living experience, we are to be conscious of God's unfathomable love, mercy, and ever-abiding presence. We also ought to tailor our lives according to the detects and ordinances of the Lord so that in this moment of preparation and joyful waiting we may be found worthy to have the newborn King and Prince of Peace in our hearts.
*+ May the Lord bless His words in our hearts. Ame

Let us pray
Stir up our hearts, O Lord, to make ready the paths of your Only-Begotten Son, that through his coming, we may be found worthy to serve you with minds made pure. Through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit God forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 11122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Wednesday of the Second Week of Advent.

Theme: Come to me, all who labour...

Table of the Word

Isaiah 40: 25-31

Matthew 18: 1-5

Reflection

Beloved in Christ, may God's love and favour rest upon us all both now and forevermore. Amen.  

In our reflection this morning we take a look at God's unfathomable love and mercy upon us, as He carries our load and makes our burden light. In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches us about the importance of humility and childlike faith, stressing that through this virtue that we can attain eternal bliss (cf. Matthew 18:1-5).

The first reading in continuation of the second book of Isaiah (the exilic writings) God spoke through Prophet Isaiah who reassures us that He is the creator of the universe and the sustainer of all life; with emphasis on His power, supremacy, wisdom and care for His people (cf.Isaiah 40:25-31). 

In moments of distress and affliction, God is always there as our comfort and peace. He restores and gives us strength in weakness as Prophet Isaiah attests to in the first reading. In Him we shall be renewed and strengthened. 

However, this can be possible only when we as Christians exhibit the virtue of humility as our master and Lord - Jesus Christ. We are also exhorted to be receptive to God's guidance and direction; recalling His words through Prophet Jeremiah:

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11). 

+ May these words be fulfilled in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us pray

Almighty God, who commands us to prepare the way for Christ the Lord, grant in your kindness, we pray, that no infirmity may weary us as we long for the comforting presence of our heavenly physician. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit God forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 10122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Tuesday of the Second Week of Advent

Theme: Comfort my people...

Table of the Word:

Isaiah 40: 1-11

Matthew 18: 12-14

Reflection

Today being Tuesday of the second week of Advent, the week where the virtue of peace becomes the central theme. The liturgy of the word called to mind the essence of peace and its rudiments. It is in line with this that the Gospel pericope presents Jesus' teaching using the parable of the lost sheep, emphasizing the importance of seeking out and saving those who have gone astray to be led where there is peace and solace (cf.Matthew 18:12-14). This parable highlights God's compassion and mercy upon us.

In the second reading, Prophet Isaiah announces the coming of a voice crying out in the wilderness, preparing the way for the Lord (cf. Isaiah 40:1-11). As an exilic writing, an extract from the second Isaiah, the passage called to mind the need for spiritual preparation and repentance, to be received into that abode where peace has built its tent.

 However, as we are toiling day and night seeking comfort, peace and solace, we are exhorted to live out the virtue of peace with one another. Reaching out to those in trouble with a message of comfort and reconciling with those who hurt us. It is in doing this that the prophecy of Isaiah in the first reading will certainly have a place in our hearts. Also, let us bear in mind that through our weaknesses and shortcomings, we have become lost and strayed sheep in need of a shepherd who will lead us home. As we continue to wait in joyful hope for His solemn coming, it is pertinent to prepare our hearts and souls by levelling every mountain in our hearts and filling every pothole of malice, envy and hatred in our lives. 

+ May the Lord bless His words in our hearts. Amen

Let us pray

O God, who has shown forth your salvation to all the ends of the earth, grant, we pray, that we may look forward in joy to the glorious Nativity of Christ. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit God God forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 09122025

THE SOLEMNITY OF IMMACULATE CONCEPTION with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

The Solemnity of Immaculate Conception 

Table of the Word

1st Reading: Genesis 3:9–15, 20

2nd Reading: Ephesians 1:3–6, 11–12

Gospel: Luke 1:26–38

Theme: Full of Grace: God’s Dream for the Human Heart. (cf. Luke 1:28; Ephesians 1:4–6)

Reflection 

Glory to Jesus!

Honour to Mary and Joseph!

Beloved brothers and sister in Christ Jesus, you are most welcome to the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of our Lady. A major celebration that puts on hold today the Reflection on the mystery of joyful waiting - the Advent. 

In the light of this, the first reading taken from the First  Book of Pentateuch Genesis 3:9–15, 20 describes an account of the great fall of our first parents.

The fall of Adam and Eve introduces sin into the world, yet God immediately announces a promise of redemption: “I will put enmity between you and the woman… she will crush your head.”

Mary is foreshadowed here as the New Eve - the woman whose obedience reverses Eve’s disobedience.

The second reading taken from the Pauline's epistle to the Ephesians 1:3–6, 11–12, reminds us that God chose us “before the foundation of the world.” Mary is the first and perfect fruit of that divine choice, redeemed preemptively so she might bear the Redeemer.

While the Gospel pericope taken from Luke 1:26–3 gives an account of the angel’s greeting which reveals Mary’s identity: “Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.”

This is not a compliment; it is a name, a state, a divine confirmation of the grace given her from the first moment of her existence.

However, in the coursebof this great celebration,  it is quite pertinent to take a look at other biblical Insight on this: 

1. Mary as the New Eve (Genesis 3:15 vs. Luke 1:38)

Where Eve said “no,” Mary says “yes.”

Where Eve doubted, Mary believed.

Her Immaculate Conception prepared her to freely cooperate with God’s plan of salvation.

2. The Ark of the New Covenant (Exodus 25:10–22; Luke 1:35)

The old Ark carried the Word of God written on tablets.

Mary, the New Ark, carries the Word made flesh.

For such a sacred mission, God made her a holy dwelling — undefiled and full of grace.

3. Rejoice, Daughter of Zion (Zephaniah 3:14–17)

The angel’s greeting “Rejoice!” (Chaire) echoes the prophecy of Zephaniah.

Mary embodies the Daughter of Zion in whom the Lord dwells:

“The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst.”

4. Chosen Before Time (Jeremiah 1:5)

Just as God told Jeremiah, “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you,”

Mary was known, chosen, and graced from the beginning — a sign that each human life has a divine purpose.

5. God’s New Creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Mary is the first blossom of the new creation brought by Christ.

Her Immaculate Conception anticipates the world saved and restored by Jesus.

 Dearest in Christ Jesus through Mary our Mother, let us look upon Mary, the one whom God clothed in grace from the first moment of her life. In her, let us see what God's love desires for us: freedom from darkness, a heart open to My Word, and a life surrendered to My will. Let her purity inspire our purpose.

Finally, the Lord gentky whispers: "My child, do not be afraid of your weakness; My grace in you can also make something new. Walk with Mary. Walk in light. Walk toward My dream for your life.”

+Peace be with you!

© The ARCHIVE 08122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Friday of the First Week of Advent

Theme: ... you shall no more be ashamed.

Table of the Word

- Isaiah 29:17-24

- Matthew 9:27-31

Reflection

In today's Gospel, Jesus heals two blind men, demonstrating his power and compassion (cf. Matthew 9:27-31). This passage highlights Jesus' ability to bring light and healing to those in need. In the first reading, Isaiah's prophecy speaks of a future time when God will bring light to the blind and hearing to the deaf (cf. Isaiah 29:17-24). This passage emphasises God's promise of restoration and salvation.
     One of the disturbing parts of human life is the inability to conquer that which pulls one down, or to attain the desired goal. In moments like this, we need light to illuminate our part,  healing and restoration, and the only way is to invite Jesus who is the light of the world to lead, heal and restore us. It is to such a time that this holy season of Advent prepares us.
       On the other hand, we are also invited to be a source of light and hope for others who are struggling or in need as this is a sure way to reciprocate the loving gesture of our God.
       Finally, in our day-to-day living experience, we ought to live out the gospel values in trust of God's promise of restoration and salvation in the midst of challenges and uncertainties. It is in doing this that we can rightly be numbered as faithful ones who joyfully await the return of the Son of God. + May the Lord bless His words in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us pray
Stir up your power, we pray, O Lord, and come, that with you to protect us, we may find rescue from the pressing dangers of our sins, and with you to set us free, we may be found worthy of salvation. Who live and reign with God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE          05122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Thursday of the First Week of Advent

Mystery of the day: Luminous 

Theme: Seek the Lord while He may be found.

Table of the Word

- Isaiah 26:1-6

- Matthew 7:21, 24-27

Reflection: 

In today's Gospel, Jesus teaches about the importance of building a strong foundation in life, using the parable of the wise and foolish builders (cf. Matthew 7:21, 24-27). This passage emphasizes the need to listen and follow God's words.

        Isaiah's prophecy still part of the First Isaiah (written before the exile experience) speaks of a future time when God will establish a strong city, symbolizing the kingdom of God (cf. Isaiah 26:1-6). This passage highlights God's promise of salvation and protection.

        It is in the light of this, that I wish to bring to our consciousness the need to seek for Jesus while He may be found as the gospel acclamation proclaimed. Taking cognizance of the gospel pericope, no one can build on a solid foundation without having Jesus as His. It is only when Jesus becomes our foundation that every life situation can be boldy faced.

      However, the basic tips to have him as the foundation is to attentively listen to His words and follow His teachings in our daily journey of Faith. As Prophet Isaiah assured us of a new city awaiting us, we ought to work hard so as to be there; since it is the desire of God for us to be where He is. As we are joyfully wait in hope the coming of the Lord,  may His words moderate our steps and illuminate our path and may the Lord + bless His words in our heart. Amen.

Let us pray

Stir up your power, O Lord, and come to our help with mighty strength, that what our sins impede the grace of your mercy may hasten. Through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE          04122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Wednesday of the First Week of Advent

Theme: He will illumine what is hidden in darkness.

Table of the Word

- Isaiah 25:6-10a

- Matthew 15:29-37

Reflection

In today's Gospel, Jesus feeds the multitude with seven loaves of bread and a few fish, demonstrating His compassion, love and abundance (cf. Matthew 15:29-37). This miracle highlights Jesus' ability to satisfy our deepest hunger and needs.

Isaiah's prophecy which is an extract from the First Isaiah (that is the pre-exilic writing) speaks of a future time when God will destroy the veil that shrouds all peoples and swallow up death forever (cf. Isaiah 25:6-10a). This passage emphasizes God's promise of eternal life and salvation.

However, these readings therefore call to mind the coming of the Lord in glory which will bring everything to its wholeness. It will be a moment to put all things aright. Those who are hungry will be satisfied, the lame will walk, dumb will speak and those in the darkness will be led along an illuminated path.

Also, we are called to mind, our trust and hope in God in moments of uncertainty. That is why the first week of Advent brings about hope that will never fail us (cf. Romans 5:5). Inasmuch as we hope in His abundance, we are obliged to lead others to the same banquet of hope; to experience Jesus' compassion and abundance.

Finally, in our busy schedule, we need to pause awhile and reflect on the ways to prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Jesus Christ, who brings eternal life and salvation. 

+ May the good Lord bless His Word in our hearts through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us pray

Prepare our hearts, we pray, O Lord our God, by your divine power, so that at the coming of Christ your Son, we may be found worthy of the banquet of eternal life and merit to receive heavenly nourishment from his hands. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE 03122025

ADVENT DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

Tuesday of the First Week of Advent 

Theme: Blessed are the eyes that see what you see.

Table of the Word

- Isaiah 11:1-10

- Luke 10:21-24

Reflection

Advent is a season of holy longing, a time when heaven bends low to touch the earth with hope. On this Tuesday of the First Week, Jesus invites His disciples, and us, into a sacred awareness: many desired to see what you see, yet did not see it.

Advent teaches us to slow down, to notice grace, and to recognize God’s gentle movements in the ordinary rhythms of our days. The Messiah we await as being prophesied by Isaiah is not found in noise, hurry, or grandeur, but in quiet revelations, small mercies, whispered encouragements, unexpected kindness (cf. Isaiah 11:1-10).

Jesus reminds us that spiritual sight is a gift. To see God’s presence in the present moment is a blessing reserved for hearts that are humble, vigilant, and receptive.

Today, the Lord calls us to three attitudes:

1. Gratitude – for the graces already given, the prayers already answered.

2. Watchfulness – for the subtle ways God is drawing near.

3. Childlike openness – for it is to the little ones and the simple-hearted that the Father reveals His mysteries.

Finally, as we journey deeper into Advent, let us pray for eyes that see and hearts that welcome the One who comes, not with thunder, but with tender mercy. + May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts. Amen.

Let us pray

Look with favour, Lord God, on our petitions, and in our trials grant us your compassionate help, that, consoled by the presence of your Son, whose coming we now await, we may be tainted no longer by the corruption of former ways. Who lives and reigns with you on the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.

© The ARCHIVE          02122025