Feast of Saint Andrew, Ap. (30th November, 2020)

 Homily (Reflection) for the Feast of Saint Andrew, Ap. (30^th November, 2020) on the Gospel and the Feast

 

Rom 10:9-18;

Ps 18:2-5. (R.v.5);

Matt 4:18-22.

Saint Andrew was the brother of Saint Peter (Matt 10:2). He was born in Bethsaida (Jn 1:44) and was first the disciple of Saint John the Baptist before following Jesus Christ (Jn 1:35-40). He was mentioned several times in the gospels, was a fisherman by profession (cf. Matt 4:18; Mk 1:16), brought the Gentiles to Jesus (Jn 12:20-22), and pointed out the boy with the loaves and the fishes Jesus used in feeding the five thousand (Jn 6:8-9).

Topic: Follow me.

We see in today’s gospel the call of Saint Andrew whose feast we celebrate today. He and his brother immediately left their source of livelihood and followed Jesus without any form of resistance or assurance of a better pay, cf. Matt 4:20. James and John, sons of Zebedee also left even their father and followed Jesus, cf. Matt 4:22.

Remember that the same Jesus who called Saint Andrew also called and is still calling us today. Although we all must not leave our sources of livelihood as Saint Andrew and his colleagues did but we all must live lives as those who have been called out of the world, cf. Jn 17:14-16.

Again, as Saint Andrew brought the Gentiles to Jesus, we are called not just to be saved but also to be channels through which others will know Jesus. Bring as much people as possible to Christ through your words and your actions. Remember that you are the light and salt of the earth, cf. Matt 5:13-14. Christians do not walk in darkness and has no boundary with the evil one, cf. Jn 8:12; 2Cor 6:15.

Bible Reading: Gal 3:19-4:7; Jn 17:10-21.

Thought for today: You have been called by Jesus Christ.

Let us pray: Lord, we humbly ask you to help us bring people to you through our words and actions today and forever – Amen.

Saint Andrew – Pray for us.

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First Sunday of Advent, (B)

 

Homily (Reflection) for the First Sunday of Advent, (B) (29^th November, 2020) on the Gospel

Is 63:16-17.64:1.3-8;

Ps 79:2-3.15-16.18-19 (R. v.4);

1Cor 1:3-9;

Mk 13:33-37.

Today is both the New Year day and the first Sunday of the Year according to the Church’s calendar known as the Liturgical year or calendar. Liturgical year is divided into seasons. The seasons are Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, and Ordinary time of the year. They are set aside to celebrate various events in Jesus’ life.

The Liturgical year begins with the Evening prayer I of the First Sunday of Advent which is the evening prayer of the Saturday preceding the First Sunday of Advent and ends on Saturday of the 34th week of the Ordinary Time. The development of the Liturgical year was a complex one involving many traditions and cultures. The Liturgical year is all about the story of our salvation. It guides us as we journey from this valley of tears to the eternal Kingdom.

The word Advent is from the Latin word adventus meaning arrival, approach, or coming. Generally, the First Sunday of Advent falls between November 27 and December 3 whereas the Fourth Sunday of Advent falls between 18th and 24th December. The season of Advent consists of four (4) Sundays but not necessarily four weeks. During the season of Advent, the liturgical colour is violet or purple. However, rose or pink vestment can be used on the Third Sunday of Advent called Gaudete or Rejoice Sunday. Gloria is not said during Mass. The season of Advent is divided into two – from the Evening Prayer I of the First Sunday of Advent to 16th December and from 17th December to 24th December. Advent is sometimes called the little Lent because in most Eastern Orthodox and other Eastern Christian Churches, it is also a time of fasting known as the Nativity or Advent Fast which lasts for forty days.

Topic: Life of Advent.

There is a story in Gerard Fuller’s book, Stories for all seasons, about a discussion between a monk and an Abbot:

“A monk asked, ‘Abbot, what has God’s wisdom taught you? Did you become divine?’

‘Not at all.’

‘Did you become a saint?’

‘No, as you can clearly see.’

‘What then, O Abbot?’

‘I became awake!’

As we begin the season of Advent which is also the beginning of the liturgical year as already noted, the gospel charges us thus:

Be on your guard, stay awake, because you never know when the time will come. It is like a man travelling abroad: he has gone from his home, and left his servants in charge, each with his own work to do; and he has told the doorkeeper to stay awake (Mk 13:33-34).

Saint Paul admonishes us in these words: “... once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light” (Eph 5:8). From the beginning of the world, there is a separation between light and darkness, cf. Gen 1:4, 18. And as Christians, we are children of Light. We are charged not to “... sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober” (1Thess 5:6). And the gospel also warns us of the consequences of not being awake: “So stay awake, because you do not know when the master of the house is coming, evening, midnight, cockcrow or dawn; if he comes unexpectedly, he must not find you asleep (Mk 13:35-36).

We need God who turns darkness into light, cf. 2Sam 22:29; Ps 18:28; Is 42:16 in our lives for us to be able to be awake. Hence the psalmist said: “... Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labour in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain” (Ps 127:1). Only those who are awake can see seek the light, cf. Acts 26:18.

The period of Advent is a time of stocktaking. It is a time for each and every one of us to check how far he/she lives as a child of light we are called to be, a time to make amends. The book of Revelations urges us to be “Awake, and strengthen what remains and is on the point of death ...” (Rev 3:2). The season of Advent is a time for all who have strayed in any way to come back to God. Saint Paul admonishes us: “the night is far gone, the day is at hand. Let us then cast off the works of darkness and put on the armour of light” (Rom 13:12). In his first letter to the Thessalonians he also wrote: “But you are not in darkness, brethren, for that day to surprise you like a thief. For you are all sons of light and sons of the day; we are not of the night or of darkness” (1Thess 5:5). In his first letter Saint Peter calls us: “... a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's own people, that you may declare the wonderful deeds of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light” (1Pt 2:9). However, “If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not live according to the truth” (1Jn 1:6). We must walk as the children of light, cf. Eph 5:8. And “Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them” (Eph 5:11). For God “...has delivered us from the dominion of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son” (Col 1:13).

Finally, my dear beloved, the season of Advent is a time of preparation not just for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. It is a time to prepare ourselves most importantly for the coming of Jesus as the Judge of the living and the dead. We also prepare during Advent to receive Jesus in the Holy Eucharist. We are to prepare for Christ who lives in our lives through His graces, cf. 1Cor 6:19, Rev 3:20. We are also called to prepare for the coming of our Lord in a spirit of waiting, conversion, hope and prayer. How well do we prepare for these or are we sleeping as we should not (cf. 1Thess 5:6)? Christians are called to live the life of advent which is the life of being awake for Christ also tells us all: “Stay awake!” (Mk 13:37).

Bible Reading: Ps 104:1-35; Lk 12:35-40; Matt 24:42-44; 2Cor 4:1-7; 1Thes 4:13-5:11.

Thought for today: Do you live the life of Advent?

Let us pray: God, as we begin this New Year which is new opportunity to live as your children, may we always be awake doing what you want of us. And may we never be found asleep – Amen.

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Memorial of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, (17th November, 2020) on the Gospel and the Memorial

Rev 3:1-6.14-22; Ps 14:2-5. (R. Rev 3:21); Lk 19:1-10.

Saint Elizabeth of Hungary was born in Hungary on 7th July, 1207 to the Hungarian King Andrew II and Gertrude of Merania. Her father arranged for her to be married to Ludwig IV of Thuringia, a German nobleman when she was very young. The marriage was blessed with three children. Ludwig supported all her religious endeavours. She led an austerely simple life, wore simple clothing, practiced penance, and devoted herself to works of charity. Elizabeth used her royal position to advance her mission for charity and also built a hospital that provided for almost a thousand poor people daily. She joined the Third Order of St. Francis in 1228 and passed away at the age of 24, on 17th November, 1231 in Marburg, Hesse and was canonized on 27th May, 1235 by Pope Gregory IX. Saint Elizabeth is the patron saint of bakers, beggars, brides, charities, death of children, homeless people, hospitals, Sisters of Mercy, and widows.

Topic: Still God’s creature.

In yesterday’s gospel, we saw Jesus on His way to Jericho. And today while passing through Jericho, Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector, a rich but short man could not see Him on account of the crowd. He ran ahead and climbed a sycamore tree beside the road Jesus was to pass. When Jesus reached there, He called him by name and asked him to come down. He welcomed Him as his guest. People grumbled because he was a known sinner. Zacchaeus vowed to give half of his possessions to the poor and to repay everyone he had defrauded four times. Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he too is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek out and to save the lost.”

Zacchaeus had been marked by the people for Hell. In the Jewish culture, such persons have no room for repentance. However, even the worst sinner still retains God’s trademark (God’s creature). Hence, Jesus even addressed him by his personal name. And God is still interested in the salvation of all even those who have lost the hope of being saved.

Dear friends, what is still holding you down? Jesus is calling you today as He called Zacchaeus to follow the example of Zacchaeus who admitted that he was a sinner. Jesus loves all His children, cf. Jn 13:1. Zacchaeus confessed by telling Jesus the things he was to do to make his path straight. Love the poor in action as Saint Elizabeth we celebrate today did for love covers a multitude of sins, cf. 1Pt 4:8. You are required to do restitution also.

Bible Reading: Ps 51.

Thought for today: God is still waiting for you.

Let us pray: Lord, give us the strength not just to leave our old ways but also to make amends – Amen.

Saint Elizabeth of Hungary – Pray for us.

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Monday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (II)

Homily (Reflection) for Monday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time (II) (16th November, 2020) on the Gospel

Rev 1:1-4. 2:1-5; Ps 1:1-4.6. (R. Rev 2:7); Lk 18:35-43.

Topic: Blind man’s faith.

As Jesus approached Jericho in today’s gospel, a blind man who sat by the roadside begging shouted loudly when he learnt who was passing, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” The people in front tried to stop him but he shouted even more loudly. Jesus stopped and the man was brought to Him. The interaction between Jesus and the man goes thus, “‘What do you want me to do for you?’ He said, ‘Lord, let me see again.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Receive your sight; your faith has saved you.’”

It is not necessary to say that the blind man was under the burden of blindness. It is unfortunate that some interpreted his struggle to be freed from the bondage as nuisance. However, he did not succumb to their shunning because he/she who wears the shoe knows exactly where and how it pinches.

This blind man took his burden to Jesus in line with His invitation in the gospel, “Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matt 11:28). And he was actually given rest from the burden of physical blindness. Like the blind man, each and every one of us also carry around his/her burden. It is important to check where we take our burdens to and where they take us to.

Only Christ Jesus can give us true rest. Do not allow anything to take you away from Jesus because apart from Him we can do nothing, cf. Jn 15:5.

Bible Reading: Ps 95:1-11.

Thought for today: ...In him we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28).

Let us pray: May God help us to remember always that we are nothing without Him – Amen.

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Thirty-Third Sunday of the Year (A)

Homily (Reflection) for the Thirty-Third Sunday of the Year (A) (15th November, 2020) on the Gospel

Prov 31:10-13.19-20.30-31; Ps 127:1-5 (R. V.1); 1Thess 5:1-6; Matt 25:14-30 or 14-15.19-20.

A burglar broke into a New York firm that manufactures burglar-proof glass by smashing a glass door panel. “It never occurred to us,” said the firm’s president, “to put our own burglar-proof glass in our own door.”

Topic: Put it into use.

Jesus likened the kingdom of heaven in today’s gospel to a man “going on a journey, summoned his slaves and entrusted his property to them; to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability” (Matt 25:14-15).

We all have been adequately blessed and also empowered to “... understand the gifts bestowed on us by God” (1Cor 2:12). There is need for each of us to understand what he/she has been given and for what purpose.

We read from Saint Paul’s letter to the Romans:

We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness (Rom 12:6-8).

God requires of each of us fruits in proportion to the talent/s given. Hence, although the slave who received 5 talents earned 5 more talents and the one who received 2 earned two more but both of them received the same judgement: “Well done, good and trustworthy slave; you have been trustworthy in a few things; I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master” (Matt 25:21; cf. v. 23). In another passage, Jesus praised the widow who gave “... two small copper coins, which are worth a penny” (Mk 12:42) and also said “... every one to whom much is given, of him will much be required; and of him to whom men commit much they will demand the more” (Lk 12:48).

Saint Paul rightly stated that all we have received are for the good of all, cf. 1Cor 12:7. We are created for good works, cf. Eph 2:10. And when the Master comes at the expiration of our span here on earth, each of us will be required to “... give account of himself to God” (Rom 14:12, cf. 1Pt 4:5; Ps 96:13; Ps 98:9; 1Ch 16:33; Is 3:13; 2Tim 4:1).

On the other hand, when the one with one talent came forward he said,

Master, I knew that you were a harsh man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter seed; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours (Matt 25:24-25).

What reason/s do you have for not investing your own God given talents? Remember that the servants/slaves that will be blessed are only those who did what they were charged to do, cf. Matt 24:46; Lk 12:43. Similarly, Proverbs reads “... servant who deals wisely has the king's favour, but his wrath falls on one who acts shamefully” (Prov 14:35). Jesus warns,

But if that servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants, and to eat and drink and get drunk, the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will punish him, and put him with the unfaithful (Lk 12:45-46).

Nobody has any reason for not yielding the desired fruits. So bear the desired fruits now, cf. Lk 3:8. Again, God is not expecting the same fruits from all because we are talented variedly.

Bible Reading: Matt 24:45-51; Mk 12:41-44; Lk 12:35-48; Rom 12:1-8; 1Cor 12:1-31.

Thought for today: Do you know that you are adequately blessed? Again, what fruits do you bear?.

Let us pray: Lord, you created us and adequately blessed us in order to bear the desired fruits. Give us the grace to enable us bear the fruits that befit the gifts you have given us – Amen.

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Saturday of the Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time (II)

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of the Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time (II) (14th November, 2020) on the Gospel (B.V.M. on Saturday, Opt. Mem.)

3Jn 5-8; Ps 111:1-6. (R. v. 1); Lk 18:1-8.

Topic: No alternative.

Jesus used the parable of the widow and the unjust judge to instruct His disciples on the need to pray always and not to lose heart. The unjust judge “who neither feared God nor had respect for people” for a while refused to grant the widow who also lived in the same city the justice she so much desired. But the widow never gave up. She continued pleading with the unjust judge until she got justice.

Have you ever asked yourself why the widow never gave up? The reason I think is simple. She had no alternative. The reason why many turn their back on God is because they think that they have alternative/s. Remember that Saint Peter correctly replied when Jesus asked them if they would leave Him like others, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (Jn 6:68).

God is the ultimate and has no alternative. He alone is God, cf. 2Kg 19:19; Ps 86:10; Neh 9:6. And He alone is good, cf. Mk 10:18; Lk 18:19.

Bible Reading: Jn 6:60-69.

Thought for today: God has no alternative.

Let us pray: God, help us to always remember that without you we can do nothing – Amen.

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Friday of the Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time (II)

Homily (Reflection) for Friday of the Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time (II) (13th November, 2020) on the Gospel

2Jn 4-9; Ps 118:1-2.10-11.17-18. (R. v.1); Lk 17:26-37.

Topic: Do the necessary.

Jesus went on and told the people that the coming of the Son of Man will be likened to the days of Noah and the days of Lot. The people were busy doing what pleased them when the destruction came. He went ahead and said that there will be no room for any action.

Today we often hear that the second coming of Christ is near, that this or that sign was seen, that this or that happened, and so on. My dear brothers and sisters, do we need those signs before we repent? We ought to be ever ready for the Son of Man. There is no need looking for one sign or another. Jesus Himself told us that there will be none.

Jesus admonishes, “Watch therefore – for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or in the morning” (Mk 13:35). He further said, “Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes; truly, I say to you, he will gird himself and have them sit at table, and he will come and serve them” (Lk 12:37). Those that will rejoice are neither those who will see the signs nor those who know when but only those who are ready.

Bible Reading: Rev 22:1-7.

Thought for today: Do not look for signs.

Let us pray: May Jesus Christ, our Lord help us prepare for his coming – Amen.

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Memorial of Saint Josephat, B.M

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Josephat, B.M, (12th November, 2020) on the Gospel and the Memorial

Philem 7-20; Ps 145:7-10. (R. v.5); Lk 17:20-25.

Saint Josephat was born in the Ukraine of Orthodox parents about the year 1580. He became a Catholic and joined the monks of Saint Basil. Josephat became a priest and was elected Bishop of Polock, and worked strenuously for the unity of the Church. He suffered martyrdom at the hands of his enemies in the year 1623. Culled from The divine office: The liturgy of the hours according to the roman rite. pp. 394-395.

Topic: Today and Tomorrow.

The Pharisees asked Jesus in today’s gospel when the kingdom of God is coming. He replied them, “The kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed; nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There it is!’ For, in fact, the kingdom of God is among you.”

Often many keep procrastinating when they will do one good thing or another especially repentance. We keep waiting for the favourable time. Regrettably, most often that so much wanted favourable time never came. Many do end up in regrets; ‘If I had known’. Hence, Jesus said to His disciples in today’s gospel, “The days are coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it.”

Dear friends in the Lord, stop procrastinating. God has blessed each and every one of us so much for every good work, cf. Matt 7:11; 2Cor 9:8. No one is sure of the next minute. Whatever good each wants to do needs to be done now. Things may not be the way one wants them for a particular good work, but everything is as God wants them for every good work.

Bible Reading: 2Tim 3:10-17.

Thought for today: You are not sure of the next second.

Let us pray: Lord, open our eyes to see how greatly you blessed us for every good work – Amen.

Saint Josephat – Pray for us.

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Memorial of Saint Martin of Tours, B.

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Martin of Tours, B., (11th November, 2020) on the Gospel and the Memorial

Tit 3:1-7; Ps 22. (R. v. 1); Lk 17:11-19.

Saint Martin of Tours was born in the present day Hungary either in 316 or 336 AD. He became a Christian at the age of 10. As a young soldier, he encountered a naked beggar in Amiens. He cut his cloak with his sword into two halves and gave one to the beggar. That night, he had a vision in which Christ appeared and said to him, “Martin, a mere catechumen has clothed me.” When he was about 20 years old, he made it clear to his superiors that he would no longer fight, following his formed Christian conscience, but his superiors accused him of cowardice. Although he vehemently refused the bishopric, he was ordained the bishop of Tours in 371 and he became a holy and hardworking Bishop. He established a system of parishes to manage his diocese and visited each parish at least once per year. He passionately and faithfully proclaimed the Gospel of Jesus Christ and won many to the Christian faith. Martin died in Candes-Saint-Martin, Gaul in 397. He is the patron of the poor, soldiers, conscientious objectors, tailors, and winemakers.

Topic: Remember ‘THANKS’.

During the time of Jesus just like in other parts of the world, the state of lepers in Israel was very bad. Medicine was yet to be ready to combat the spread of infectious diseases like leprosy. So to avoid their spread, their victims were normally quarantined. In Israel, lepers were seen as unclean and must be avoided, cf. Lev 13:3; 5:3. According to the book of Leviticus, there must be demarcation between the clean and the unclean, cf. Lev 10:10. Even nonhumans were not spared, cf. Lev 14:34-47. Hence in the gospel pericope, we read: “...ten lepers approached him. Keeping their distance, they cried out, saying, ‘Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!’”

The work of priests was far beyond what it is today. It was the priest who “shall examine the diseased spot on the skin of his body; and if the hair in the diseased spot has turned white and the disease appears to be deeper than the skin of his body, it is a leprous disease; when the priest has examined him he shall pronounce him unclean” (Lev 13:3). Lepers remain in the state of uncleanness as long as the disease lasts and as a result “shall dwell alone in a habitation outside the camp” (Lev 13:46).

Just as the priest declared one unclean on account of leprosy, if a leper is cured by any means, it was also a priestly duty to declare him or her clean and also to perform ritual cleansing and atonement for the victim, cf. Lev 14:1-20. With this in mind, we can understand why Jesus said to the ten lepers unlike when he performed other miracles: “Go and show yourselves to the priests”.

This picture of the state of lepers in Israel at the time of Jesus shows the magnitude of what Jesus did for the ten lepers. We can also better imagine how he felt that made Him queried: “Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” Surely, many if not all of us will instantly condemn those nine ungrateful men, many of whom must have been Jesus’ kinsmen (Jews).

Just as the state of lepers in Israel was very bad, today there are many conditions that are really bad. Some differ from culture to culture. Many of us were in such pitiable states. And some have been shielded from them. How do we appreciate these?

Today’s gospel calls for serious examination on how often we have been grateful to God, to others, and also to ourselves. God is still asking of the people he has blessed with all kinds of gifts.

Bible Reading: Ps 136:1-26; Eph 2:1-10.

Thought for today: Are you the Samaritan or one of the ungrateful nine who went away?

Let us pray: Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and do not forget all his benefits – Amen (Ps 103:1-2).

Saint Martin of Tours – Pray for us.

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Memorial of Saint Leo the Great, Pp. D.

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Leo the Great, Pp. D. (10th November, 2020) on the Gospel and the Memorial

Tit 2:1-8.11-14; Ps 36:3-4.18.23.27.29. (R. v.39); Lk 17:7-10.

Saint Leo the Great was born in Tuscany. He reigned as Pope between 440 and 461. Saint Leo persuaded Emperor Valentinian to recognize the primacy of the Bishop of Rome in an edict in 445. The doctrine of the Incarnation was formed by him in a letter to the Patriarch of Constantinople, who had already condemned Eutyches. At the Council of Chalcedon this same letter was confirmed as the expression of Catholic Faith concerning the Person of Christ. He was well-known for his great eloquence and writing skills. He died in 461, leaving many letters and writings of great historical value.

Topic: Not here and now.

Jesus queried His disciples if any of them would ask his slave on his return from plowing or tending sheep to eat at once. He asked them further, “Would you not rather say to him, ‘Prepare supper for me, put on your apron and serve me while I eat and drink; later you may eat and drink’? Do you thank the slave for doing what was commanded?”

A master who behaves in the way Jesus described in this gospel can be seen as an insensitive one. How could he not have given his slave at least a little time to rest; from the field to other house chores? However, the slave was to eat and drink after he had finished his work.

Often we either wonder or complain that things are not moving on well for us despite our efforts to be charitable, to avoid sin, to be just, to pray at all times, to be regular and punctual to church’s programmes, and so on. Certainly a slave who returned from the field would prefer to at least eat, and rest. But it was not the right time.

The Master will certainly repay every one of us, cf. Is 25:8. But that will be at the proper season, cf. Eccl 3:1. With the Psalmist I admonished ourselves, “Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; yea, wait for the LORD!” (Ps 27:14; cf. Ps 31:24). He is coming soon to repay every one according to what each has done, cf. Rev 22:12. Certainly, one may ask, ‘But when?’ The only sure answer is that it will be at God’s own time not ours which is unknown even to the angels, cf. Mk 13:32.

Bible Reading: Eccl 3:1-15.

Thought for today: At God’s own time.

Let us pray: Lord, give us the strength to be strong enough to wait for you till you come – Amen.

Saint Leo the Great – Pray for us.

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Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica

Homily (Reflection) for the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica (09th November, 2020) on the Gospel and the Feast

Ezek 47:1-2.8-9.12; Ps 45:2-3.5-6.8-9. (R. v. 5); 1Cor 3:9-11.16-17; Jn 2:13-22.

This feast commemorates the dedication of Saint John Lateran basilica (San Giovanni in Laterano) built under Pope Miltiades (311-314). It was consecrated by Pope Sylvester around 324. This feast is a sign of love for and union with the See of Peter. Saint John Lateran basilica is the first to be built after Emperor Constantine’s edict, in 313, granted Christians freedom to practice their religion and is also most ancient church in the world. Hence it is rightly called “the mother and mistress of all churches of Rome and the world” (omnium urbis et orbis ecclesiarum mater et caput). It is also the cathedral of the bishop of Rome, the pope, and as a result is also Rome’s cathedral. Saint John Lateran basilica has undergone several reconstructions and houses a number of important relics that include a fragment of the table on which Jesus consumed the last supper and Jesus’ blood that was brought to Rome by centurion Longino.

It was Constantine who gave Pope Miltiades the ancient palace of the Laterani family, and the basilica, the baptistery, and the patriarchate, that is, the Bishop of Rome’s residence — where the Popes lived until the Avignon period — were all built there. This basilica was named Most Holy Saviour. However, Saint John the Baptist was added to the basilica's dedication in the 10th century by Pope Sergius III (904-911) and in the 12th century, Pope Lucius II (1144- 1145) added John the Evangelist.

Topic: Dedicated to God.

God speaking through the prophet Isaiah concerning all who would keep his statutes He said: “these I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples” (Is 56:7). However, as the Jewish Passover was near, Jesus went up to Jerusalem and behold right in the temple (God’s house) “... he found people selling cattle, sheep, and doves, and the money changers seated at their tables” (Jn 2:14). The same house meant for prayers was turned into something else, cf. Matt 21:13; Mk 11:17; Lk 19:46.

As we celebrate the dedication of the mother and mistress of all churches of Rome and the world, it is important to consider what we do today with God’s houses: the buildings as well as our bodies. Just as Jesus found that the temple was turned into den of robbers, many churches today are not different. The only thing that bothers both the leaders and sometimes even the lead is how to get as much money as possible and probably how to either use or misuse the money. The spiritual wellbeing of the people of God is not considered as something important. Many pastors of souls are rated today based on how rich they are. But it is important to always remember that every priest/pastor is a watchman who must do his duty, cf. Hos 9:8. In the prophet Ezekiel we read: “Son of man, I have appointed you as a watchman for the House of Israel. When you hear a word from my mouth, warn them for me” (Ezek 3:17; cf. Ezek 33:7). God went on to say, “But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet, so that the people are not warned, and the sword comes, and takes any one of them; that man is taken away in his iniquity, but his blood I will require at the watchman's hand” (Ezek 33:6).

Again, Jesus said to the Jews who were looking for sign: “‘... Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up’” (Jn 2:19). And the gospel goes further to say “But he was speaking of the temple of his body” (Jn 2: 21). And we read from Saint Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians: “Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I therefore take the members of Christ and make them members of a prostitute? Never!” (1Cor 6:15). Again he asked: “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God? You are not your own” (1Cor 6:19). As a result nobody is free to do with his/her body whatever he/she wants because all of us “... were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body” (1Cor 6:20). In his Letter to the Romans we also read: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present Your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship” (Rom 12:1). Saint James also asks: “Or do you suppose it is in vain that the scripture says, ‘He yearns jealously over the spirit which he has made to dwell in us’?” (Jas 4:5). And Saint Peter admonished us thus: “... like living stones be yourselves built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (1Pt 2:5).

So my dear brothers and sisters in the Lord, we must be careful of what we do with God’s temples because they are all dedicated to God. Remember always Saint Paul’s warning: “If any one destroys God's temple, God will destroy him. For God's temple is holy, and that temple you are” (1Cor 3:17). However, no doubt, we all have either destroyed or desecrated God’s temple in many ways. What then do we do? The gospel reading tells us: “Making a whip of cords, he [Jesus] drove all of them out of the temple ...” (Jn 2:15). In the same vein, it is time to drive everything that either destroys or desecrates God’s house from God’s house.

Bible Reading: Ezek 3:16-21; 33:1-9; 1Cor 3:1-23; 1Pt 2:1-17.

Thought for today: Do you use or misuse the house of God – your body, the Church as a community, and/or the buildings?

Let us pray: God, being aware that we have destroyed your temple in many ways, we humbly ask for your grace to enable us cleanse your temple – Amen.

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Thirty-Second Sunday of the Year (A) (08th November, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for the Thirty-Second Sunday of the Year (A) (08th November, 2020) on the Gospel

Wis 6:12-16; Ps 62:2-8 (R. V.2); 1Thess 4:13-18 or 13-14; Matt 25:1-13.

Topic: Keep awake.

In the gospel according to Luke, someone asked Jesus while teaching on His way to Jerusalem, “Lord, will only a few saved?” Jesus admonished all to strive to enter through the narrow door. He warned that many will try in vain to enter. Once the owner of the house shut the door, those outside will knock and beg in vain. Those outside will include those who ate and drank with Him and those He taught in their streets, cf. Lk 13:22-27; cf. Matt 7:13-14.

And in today’s gospel, Jesus compared the kingdom of heaven with ten bridesmaids who went to meet the bridegroom with their lamps. Five wise ones “took flasks of oil with their lamps” whereas the foolish ones took only their lamps. All of them became drowsy and slept when the bridegroom delayed. But there was a shout at midnight, ‘Look! Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ When the bridesmaids trimmed their lamps, the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ The wise replied, ‘No! There will not be enough for you and for us; you had better go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’ However, before they could return, those who were ready had entered into the wedding banquet with the bridegroom; and the door was shut. They pleaded unsuccessfully for the door to be opened for them.

We are waiting for the bridegroom (our master) to come when we do not know, cf. Lk 12:36. While waiting for Him, we will fall asleep (die). The only thing that will remain (the oil) is one’s good deeds. Hence the book of Revelation reads, “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord henceforth.” “Blessed indeed,” says the Spirit, “that they may rest from their labours, for their deeds follow them!” (Rev 14:13).

Hope no one is worried with regard to the bridegroom, Jesus Christ, shutting the door against the foolish forever? We remember that “The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love” (Ps 103:8; cf. Ps 116:5).

The prophet Isaiah admonished,

Seek the LORD while he may be found, call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake their way, and the unrighteous their thoughts; let them return to the Lord, that he may have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon (Is 55:6-7).

And the book of Proverbs reads,

Because I have called and you refused, have stretched out my hand and no one heeded, and because you have ignored all my counsel and would have none of my reproof....they [you] will call upon me but I will not answer; they [you] will seek me diligently, but will not find me (Prov 1:24-25.28).

There is time for everything. Saint Paul rightly admonished, “...now is the acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2Cor 6:2; cf. Is 49:8). Jesus concluded today’s gospel with this warning, “Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour” (Matt 25:13).

Let us conclude with this story in Gerald Fuller’s book, Stories for all seasons,

I learned my first lesson in responsibility the day I returned from school to find my guinea pigs missing. I rushed to ask my mother about them. “I gave them away because you didn’t take care of them.” “But I did take care of them!” “Joni, I gave them away ten days ago!”

Dear friends, this is the time. Come back to God who is patiently waiting with outstretched hands. If you ignore Him today, it may be too late tomorrow.

Bible Reading: Is 55:1-13; Prov 1:20-33; Lk 13:22-30.

Thought for today: Keep awake...you know neither the day nor the hour (Matt 25:13).

Let us pray: God, our Father, assist us in our struggle to be ever ready for you – Amen.

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Saturday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time (II) (07th November, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Saturday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time (II) (07th November, 2020) on the Gospel

(B.V.M. on Saturday, Opt. Mem.)

Phil 4:10-19; Ps 112:1-2.5-6.8-9. (R. v. 1); Lk 16:9-15.

Topic: Consider your loyalty.

Jesus admonished us in today’s gospel to prepare for the life everlasting with the earthly wealth. He also said that whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much, and vice versa. Jesus said further, “No slave can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.”

It is very easy for everyone to say that he/she is loyal to God. However, our God is a jealous God, cf. Ex 34:14; Deut 5:9. 6:15. He demands hundred percent of our loyalty.

We must check ourselves individually to ascertain if we are truly loyal to God. Just as it is easy for one to say that he/she is loyal to God, it may also be easy to find out whether this is real or just a made-up. Think of what will be your decision if you are to choose between God and your business, between Him and your friendship, or connections, or family, and so on. Remember the very words of our Master, “If any one comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple” (Lk 14:26).

Certainly, it is not an easy decision to make. However, “the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations” (Ps 100:5). Things may not be the way one wants them for a particular good work, but everything is as God wants them.

Bible Reading: Lk 14:25-33.

Thought for today: Only God stands for ever.

Let us pray: May the almighty God give us the strength to be faithful to Him in every circumstance – Amen.

You are free to share this reflection with others if you consider it worthy.

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Friday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time (II) (06th November, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Friday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time (II) (06th November, 2020) on the Gospel

Phil 3:17–4:1; Ps 121:1-5. (R. v. 1); Lk 16:1-8.

Topic: Use worldly riches.

Jesus taught His disciples in today’s gospel using the parable of the dishonest manager. In this parable, a rich man consequent upon reports of how his manager squandered his money called him and said to him, “What is this that I hear about you? Give me an accounting of your management, because you cannot be my manager any longer.” The manager reduced the debts of his master’s debtors so as to have people to welcome him when dismissed.

We all are God’s creatures. He has assigned each of us to our different tasks. Hence, the Psalmist wrote, “...the LORD is God! It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture” (Ps 100:3). Just like the rich man demanded of his manager in today’s gospel to give account, each of us must one day be called to give account of his/her life to God, our Master, cf. Rom 14:12; Heb 10:30; 1Pt 4:5.

Not minding how long and/or how precious an earthly possession is, none can last for eternity. However, the benefits of using them well can last forever likewise the punishment of their abuse, cf. Matt 25:40, 45-46. We must remember always that we shall give account to God.

Bible Reading: Ps 103:1-22.

Thought for today: ...each of us will be accountable to God, (Rom 14:12).

Let us pray: God, help us to be ever conscious that we shall render account to you – Amen.

You are free to share this reflection with others if you consider it worthy.

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Thursday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time (II) (05th November, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for Thursday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time (II) (05th November, 2020) on the Gospel

Phil 3:3-8; Ps 104:2-7. (R. v.3); Lk 15:1-10.

Topic: Each is uniquely important.

Today’s gospel is made up of two parables; the parable of the lost sheep (Lk 15:4-7), and the parable of the lost coin (Lk 15:8-10). Verses 1-3 serve as introduction to these parables.

In the first parable, one who loses a sheep out of a hundred will leave ninety-nine and search for it. Similarly, in the second one, a woman with ten silver coins, if she loses one will light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully for it. Both will rejoice if they succeed in finding the lost.

Like the person who had a hundred sheep in the first parable and the woman who had ten silver coins in the second one, each and every one of us is blessed with so many things. Every one of them is uniquely important. Preserving them might be very difficult but the more one achieves the greater the joy. More importantly, each and every one of us is uniquely important in the sight of God. He is interested in every one of us and is giving us all the necessary assistance to help us reunite with Him at the end of our earthly sojourn.

Bible Reading: Matt 25:14-30.

Thought for today: You are particularly important to God.

Let us pray: Lord, help us to put every grace you have given us into use – Amen.

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Memorial of Saint Charles Borromeo, B., (04th November, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Charles Borromeo, B., (04th November, 2020) on the Gospel and the Memorial

Phil 2:12-18; Ps 26:1.4.13-14. (R.v.1); Lk 14:25-33.

Saint Charles Borromeo (2nd October, 1538 – 3rd November, 1584) dedicated himself to a life of service to the Church at the age of 12. Life sped up for him after his uncle became Pope Pius IV on 25th December, 1559. The new pope invited him to Rome and appointed him a cardinal-deacon that came with the job of assisting and advising the pope. He was made a cardinal a month later. His appointment as the administrator of the Archdiocese of Milan in 1560 helped him decide that the Lord was calling him to the priesthood. Against the urge to preserve the family name after the death of his brother in 1562, he was ordained a priest on 4th September, 1563, consecrated a bishop on 7th December, 1563, and became the Archbishop of Milan on 12th May, 1564. He provided education to many clergy he saw as ignorant as a way of reforming the church, and also founded schools and seminaries, and stopped the selling of indulgences. Charles Borromeo went deep into debt feeding the starving people when famine struck Milan in 1576. Pope Paul V beatified him on 12th May, 1602, and also canonized him on 1st November, 1610. He is the patron saint of bishops, catechists, Lombardy, Italy, Monterey, California, cardinals, seminarians, spiritual leaders, and Sao Carlos in Brazil.

Topic: Disciple or part of the crowds.

We learnt from yesterday’s gospel (Lk 14:15-24) that the invitation to the eternal banquet has been given. However, the difference lies in the individual’s acceptance or rejection of it.

Today, we see large crowds travelling with Jesus. The bible did not tell us why but one can presume they wanted to be His disciples. Hence, Jesus turned and said to them, “Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple” (Lk 14: 26-27). To drive the point home, He told them that one who wants to build a tower and a king who wants to engage another king in a battle ought to first check if he will be able to finish the building and oppose the other king respectively.

Following Jesus around is quite different from being His disciple (a Christian). Hence Jesus did not ask them to stop following Him around but He made it clear to them that “...none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions” (Lk 14:33).

Dear friends, we must ask ourselves if we are really Christ’s disciple or just moving about with Him. Going to church and even receiving Holy Communion regularly, holding exalted positions in the house of God, and many more cannot qualify us to be His follower. No wonder, on the last day many would say: “We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets” (Lk 13:26). But He will say, “I do not know where you come from; go away from me, all you evildoers!” (Lk 13:27)

Bible Reading: Lk 13:22-30.

Thought for today: ...enter through the narrow door (Lk 13:24).

Let us pray: Lord Jesus, help us to detach ourselves completely to enable us be truly your disciples – Amen.

Saint Charles Borromeo – Pray for us.

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Memorial of Saint Martin De Porres, Rel. (03rd November, 2020)

Homily (Reflection) for the Memorial of Saint Martin De Porres, Rel. (03rd November, 2020) on the Gospel and the Memorial

Phil 2:5-11; Ps 21:26-32. (R. v.26); Lk 14:15-24.

Saint Martin de Porres (9th December 1579 - 3rd November, 1639), the illegitimate son of a Spanish gentlemen and a freed slave from Panama, of African or possibly Native American descent, was born in Lima, Peru. His father abandoned him, his mother and younger sister at a young age. After two years in primary school, he was sent to learn how to cut hair and the medical arts. He was greatly ridiculed for being of mixed-race. Martin found it very difficult becoming a religious because law forbade all descendants of African or Indians from being full members of religious orders. At 15, he entered the Dominican Convent of the Rosary in Lima as a servant boy and became a Dominican lay brother in 1603. Ten years later, he was assigned to the infirmary where he remained until his death. He had virtues needed to carefully and patiently care for the sick. Martin was praised for his unconditional care of all people. His life reflected his great love for God and all of God's gifts. Before his death after almost a year full of illness, he was widely known and accepted. His body exhaled a splendid fragrance and was still intact when exhumed 25 years later. He was beatified by Pope Gregory XVI on 29th October, 1837 and canonized by Pope John XXIII on 6th May, 1962. He is the patron saint of people of mixed race, innkeepers, barbers, public health workers and more.

Topic: Heaven or Hell.

Whenever I hear or read about the joy of the saints in heaven, I wish I have made it. I do not know about you. However, I have good reason to assume that your wish is as good as mine. There is an Igbo adage, Onweghị onye etinyere sugar n’ọnụ ọ gbụpụ, literally meaning that nobody spits the cube of sugar placed in his/her mouth.

In today’s gospel, it is obvious that the problem is not in the giving of invitation but in our individual responses. We see in the gospel three categories: the first invitee represents those whose investment/s hinder, cf. Lk 14:18. And the second represents those hindered by their businesses, cf. Lk 14:19. The last represents those who are more attached to their families than to God, cf. Lk 14:20. I believe you know that the list can be expanded. We remember the words of Jesus, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God” (Lk 9:62). Again, “He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me” (Matt 10:37).

Jesus is saying to all of us, “Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matt 11:28). It is important to ask ourselves if we respond positively to His calling or not. He is lamenting over a good number of us, “...you refuse to come to me that you may have life” (Jn 5:40). Where do you belong?

Bible Reading: Lk 16:19-31.

Thought for today: Heaven and hell are real.

Let us pray: God, help us respond positively to your invitation to the eternal banquet – Amen.

Saint Martin De Porres – Pray for us.

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Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls) (A)

Homily for the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls) (A) (2nd November, 2020) on the Commemoration Is 25:6-9;

Ps 26:1.4.7-9.13-14 (R. v.1 or v.13) Rom 5:5-11; Matt 11:25-30.

Topic: Belief in Purgatory and Praying for the dead.

Just yesterday, the Church rejoiced for our brothers and sisters who are already enjoying the beatific vision. Today, we are praying for those who although have left this world and are not damned but are not found as perfect as we are called to be, cf. Matt 5:48. This belief in the purification after death better known as purgatory however is one of the areas many non-Catholics criticise so much. As a result of these, despite the fact that the word PURGATORY is not found in the bible, this homily among other things aims at showing that there is nothing unscriptural about PURGATORY and praying for the dead.

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), those we commemorate today are “all who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven” (CCC 1030). The Church formulated her doctrine of faith on Purgatory especially at the Councils of Florence and Trent based on the scripture and “practice of prayer for the dead”, cf. CCC 1031-1032.

Often during funerals, we normally say or hear that the person is already either in heaven or in hell. But in the gospel we read the very words of Jesus: “… how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!” (Mk 10:24; cf. Mk 10:23; Lk 18:24). Again, nothing is hidden before God, cf. Ps 69:5; 139:1-17, Jer 33:3. And remember, our target is to be as perfect as God Himself, cf. Matt 5:48. Hence Saint Peter aptly admonished us thus: “… strive to be found by him [God] at peace, without spot or blemish” (2Pt 3:14).

Although we are called to be perfect as God but sometimes some of us claim to be more perfect than God. However, what we know about life in this world and the testimonies of the Holy Scripture prove such claims otherwise. The Book of Ecclesiastes states, “Surely there is no one on earth so righteous as to do good without ever sinning” (Eccl 7:20). In the same vein, the First Letter of St John reads: “If we say we have not sinned, we make him [God] a liar, and his word is not in us” (1Jn 1:10). And through the prophet Jeremiah, God said that he will punish those who deny the fact that they are sinners, cf. Jer 2:35. As if in confirmation, Job asked: “how can a man be just before God?” (Job 9:2). These and many more point to the fact that no matter how holy a man is he or she is still full of at least imperfections. And according to the scriptures, God will “reward every man according to his works” (Matt 16:27, cf. Rom 2:6, 1Cor 3:8, Prov 24:12; 2Tim 4:14; 2Chr 6:23; Jer 32:19; Ezek 18:30; 24:14; 33:20). The reward will not be based on hearsay. We read from the Prophet Jeremiah: “I the LORD test the mind and search the heart, to give to all according to their ways, according to the fruit of their doings” (Jer 17:10). Only God knows the hearts of all men, cf. 1Kg 8:39.

To the scribe who answered well Jesus said: "You are not far from the kingdom of God." (Mk 12:34). That he is not far surely does not mean that he is already in the kingdom of God. For some people, every person who is found wanting in any way will surely go to Hell. But God said that every person who wrongs is to be punished according to his offence, Deut 25:2.

However, our God is not only just but also merciful: “The LORD is just in all his ways, and kind in all his doings” (Ps 145:17). The Psalmist also wrote: “… and steadfast love belongs to you, O Lord. For you repay to all according to their work” (Ps 62:12).

Despite the fact that every sin is evil before God yet sins are of different categories. The First Letter of St John reads: “If any one sees his brother committing what is not a mortal sin, he will ask, and God will give him life for those whose sin is not mortal” (1Jn 5:16). But supposing one dies in the state of sin that is not mortal, which way – heaven or hell? Again, in the gospel Jesus said:

That slave who knew what his master wanted, but did not prepare himself or do what was wanted, will receive a severe beating. But the one who did not know and did what deserve a beating will receive a light beating” (Lk 12:47-48).

And again, should such a servant die with an offence that deserves ‘a light beating’ where will it take place – heaven or hell? Both the offences that require light beating and those Saint John asks us to pray for lead people to the state we call purgatory. Hence, we are today praying for them as Saint John asks us to.

It is important to note also that in as much as the Church teaches in line with the scriptures the forgiveness of sins, (cf. Jn 20:23), we should “… understand that sin has double consequences. Grave sin deprives us of communion with God, and therefore makes us incapable of eternal life, the privation of which is called the “eternal punishment” of sin. On the other hand every sin, even venial sins, entails an unhealthy attachment to creatures, which must be purified either here on earth, or after death in the state called Purgatory. This purification frees one from what is called the “temporal punishment” of sin” (CCC 1472) or the light beating. To better understand this, one who hits another’s car for instance is liable not just for the repair but also for the inconveniences caused. That one’s sins have been forgiven does not mean that he will not repair what he or she damaged through sin. Hence CCC says: “The forgiveness of sin and restoration of communion with God entail the remission of the eternal punishment of sin, but temporal punishment of sin remains” (1473). Those who were not able to be purified here on earth of the temporal punishment due to their sins do so in Purgatory. This should not be seen as a punishment but as an expression of God’s love for us sinners. It is to make our souls ready for his kingdom, cf. Prov 20:30. This is what we commemorate today. It is left for us either to pray for the dead or not pray just like a man who did not pray for his deceased mother and also banned others from doing so. The road to eternal life is longer and harder than what many think it to be and as a result, there will be surprises on the last day.

Finally, praying for the dead is an explicit belief in purgatory. That place the souls of the deceased are while prayers are offered for them is what is called the purgatory. Catholics believe in purgatory partly because of some of the reasons already given above and again purgatory is part of the teaching the apostles handed over by word of mouth. And these are as binding as what are contained in the bible, cf. 2Thess 2:15; 2Cor 10:10-11.

Bible Reading: 2Macc 12:32-45; Lk 12:41-48; 1Cor 3:14-15.

Thought for Today: How often do you pray for the dead?

Let us pray: Eternal rest grant to them O Lord, and let your perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace – Amen.

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Solemnity of All Saints (01st November, 2020)

Homily for the Solemnity of All Saints (01st November, 2020) on the Solemnity

Rev (Apoc) 7:2-4.9-14; Ps 23:1-6. (R.cf. v. 6); 1Jn 3:1-3; Matt 5:1-12.

Topic: Called to be a Saint (Rom 1:7).

The Church as a family of God is of three states – the Church Triumphant (those already in heaven), the Church Militant (part of this family that are still here on earth), and the Church Suffering (our brethren who have left this world but were not as perfect as God wants and as a result are being purified where we call Purgatory). Today, the Church is celebrating that part of her that is already in heaven. These include the canonized and beatified and also those we never knew they made heaven.

As we celebrate these brothers and sisters of ours, it is important to note that the call to be Christians is a call to be saints, cf. Rom 1:7, 1Cor 1:2; 2Cor 1:1; Eph 1:1; Phil 1:1; Col 1:2. Again when God called Ananias to go and baptize Saul, he replied: “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to thy saints at Jerusalem” (Acts 9:13). Furthermore, Paul in Acts of the Apostles while defending himself before Agrippa said that he (Paul) “shut up many of the saints in prison” (Acts 26:10).

Furthermore, our call to be Christians is a call to be part of Christ, the head, the Church, cf. Acts 9:4; 1Cor 11:3; Eph 1:22; 4:15; 5:23; Col 1:18; 2:10; 2:19. And this Christ is the fountain of holiness, cf. Heb 12:10; 1Thess 4:7; Eph 4:24; 2Cor 7:1. Christians therefore have no option other than to be saints because the head and the members ought to be one. A Christian who is not a saint is a diseased part of the body and should be cut off, cf. Mal 2:11-12; Rom 11:22.

What then are the things the bible tells us about saints? Firstly, saints are God’s beloved (Rom 1:7) because they hate every form of evil and God in his turn preserves their lives and delivers them from the hand of the wicked, cf. Ps 97:10. The saints, “…shall receive the kingdom, and possess the kingdom forever, forever and ever” (Dan 7:18). This kingdom in question is the one Saint Paul described thus, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him” (1Cor 2:9, cf. Is 64:4-5a, Eph 1:18). Hence, “precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints” (Ps 116:15).

Again, the saints will judge the earth and the angels, (cf. Matt 19:28; 1Cor 6:1-3). Christians today do not settle misunderstandings among themselves without going to court, ụmụnna, ụmụada, village meetings, native doctors, idols, among so many others. This reminds me of what happened in one of the parishes around. Two Christians had a misunderstanding. One of them went and reported the matter to a priest of an idol. However the other reported the matter to the Police. In the process the DPO asked them if they were Christians. They answered in affirmative and to buttress this point, the one who reported the matter to the idol brought out his bible.

Furthermore, saints also avoid sin. In the words of Saint Paul “…fornication and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is fitting among saints” (Eph 5:3). Christ our head has condemned sin in the flesh, cf. Rom 8:3. Christians are called to walk in the Spirit which brings life and not in the flesh that brings death, cf. Rom 8:6. The Psalmist calls on the saints of God to Love and fear the Lord for those who fear him have no want, cf. Ps 31:23, Ps 34:9. Our God is just and “will not forsake his saints” (Ps 37:28). The prayers of the saints rise to the throne of God mixed with incense, cf. Rev 5:8; 8:3-4).

Surely for some it is no longer possible for them to become saints. On the contrary, no matter how one’s past and present are like, he/she can still be a saint. The First Reading tells us of the great multitude “who have come out of great ordeal; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb” (Rev 7:14). My dear, no robe is too dirty for the blood of the Lamb. Hence for the Psalmist, “Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom the LORD imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit” (Ps 32:1-2). Let us pray for ourselves and never rejoice at our brothers/sisters failure. Heaven is for all.

So my dear ones in the Lord, as we read in the Acts of the Apostles of the saints at Lydda, cf. Acts 9:32, of the Saints of Achaia (2Cor 1:1), Saints at Philippi (Phil 1:1), the saints at Colossae (Col 1:2) among others, can you be referred to as a saint in your parish/station/branch, and so on? If yes, rejoice for you are one of those we celebrate today and if no, thank God because you can still make the best out of what is remaining. Please, make the best of it today. Delay is dangerous.

Bible Reading: Acts 9:10-14; Col 1:1-14; 1Cor 6:1-11; 1Thess 4:1-12; Rom 8:1-17; Rev 11:15-19.

Thought for today: Are you a saint or not?

Let us pray: Grace to you (all the saints of God) and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ – Amen (cf. Rev 22:21, Rom 1:7).

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