August 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

Readings: Isaiah 66:18-21; Heb. 12:5-7, 11-13; Lk 13:22-30

Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child!

We take pride in being a diverse community in Odenton. Indeed, Fort Meade, NSA, and various other factors have brought us together from different ethnic backgrounds and countries, and we often speak different languages. However, the one thing that unites us more than anything else is our love for God and His people. Like the disciples of old, the Eucharist, our sense of community, and our love for one another serve as our unifying forces. Our relationships outside of the worshiping community stem from the fact that we have worshiped God together. Because God is our Father, we share a relationship with His children—our brothers and sisters.

Isaiah the prophet emphasized this point in the first reading: “I am coming to gather the nations of every language. They shall come to witness my glory. I will give them a sign and send some of their survivors to the nations.” (Is. 66:18) The prophet wrote to encourage Israel’s exiles in Babylon, who had been separated from their homeland for two generations. Many had given up hope of ever returning to Judea and their beloved temple in Jerusalem. Isaiah reassured them that God would revisit them to restore their fortunes, allowing them to worship Him again in Jerusalem. He reminded them that at the time of their visitation, people from foreign nations would join them in worship. Even foreigners would be accepted as priests. This idea was challenging for the Israelites, who believed that salvation was their birthright. Jesus addressed the question of salvation in today’s Gospel reading.

The Children of Israel were meant to view their time in a foreign land as a period of testing and discipline. God tested them because He loved them. The Scripture states, “Endure your trials as ‘discipline’; God treats you as sons. For what ‘son’ is there whom his father does not discipline?” (Heb. 12:7). Although we dislike suffering, it is an inevitable part of life. There is no crown without a cross. Many of us go to great lengths to avoid pain, suffering, and discipline. Some have turned to drugs, alcohol, sex, and violent behaviors to numb their pain. However, problems do not simply disappear; they must be confronted and worked through. Whatever you use to escape pain and suffering will eventually wear off, and your pain will only intensify thereafter. True solutions require discipline.

 

Today, Christ invites us to make a choice. In response to the question, “Lord, will only a few people be saved?” Jesus said, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough.” Christ calls us to embark on a journey down the road less traveled. If we are not committed to our Christian calling, we risk being cast out of the kingdom. How sad would it be to see those we consider our enemies in heaven while we find ourselves in hell? We cannot rely solely on our knowledge of the law, being faithful in prayer, praying the rosary, attending Mass, or being consistent recipients of the Eucharist. These do not guarantee Christ will open the door for us. Instead, we might hear the words, “I do not know where you are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers!” (Lk. 12:27). Isaiah would then point out, “These people claim to worship me, but their words are meaningless; their hearts are elsewhere. Their religion is merely human rules and traditions that they have memorized.” (Is. 29:13).

Does God know your work and your thoughts? Do you have a personal relationship with Jesus that influences how you interact with others? When asked, “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” Christ replied, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. The whole law and the prophets depend on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:36-40). Those who God knows, who do His will, and who allow Him to discipline them will be granted a place in His kingdom—not those who merely call on God daily without following His commands. And his command is easy: “Love one another as I have loved you.” (Jn. 13:34)

Today, we face a choice: to take the road less traveled that leads to joy, peace, and eternal bliss, or to choose a path that promises instant gratification but results in long-term suffering. Will you choose a life with God or a life without Him? Will you choose forgiveness and peaceful coexistence with others, or will you embrace a life of hatred and sorrow? The choice is yours, but every choice comes with consequences. Let us choose the narrow path, the road less traveled, so that we may enter a life of happiness and peace with God. May we never hear the words: “I do not know where you are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers.” God bless you! Amen.

Fr. Augustine Etemma Inwang, MSP

August 17, 2025, 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

Readings: Jeremiah 38:4-6, 8-10; Heb. 12:1-4; Lk 12:49-53

Why is the Earth not on Fire?

In November of 1982, 25 young men entered into formation in the National Missionary Seminary of St. Paul. One of them was a Muslim convert to Christianity, unknown to his family. Since he was from the area where the Seminary was located and knew the terrain, he was our designated driver. One day, he was sent on an errand to the parish close by. He did not know that his father had posted scouts to track him. As he came out of the rectory, he was accosted by his father and taken back home. He was persuaded to give up his desire to be a priest, but he refused; his mind was made up. After a long persuasion, he was let go. Today, he is a missionary priest. “Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on, a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father.”

This is by no means an isolated case. There are many priests, bishops, and religious who have gone through similar situations to answer the call to follow Christ. They have had to suffer deprivations and the torment of one kind or the other in their chosen vocation. Jeremiah, in today’s first reading, was not different. As a prophet, Jeremiah had to toe a fine line between prophesying for God and telling people what they wanted to hear. Jeremiah lived and died trying to change the course of human history by denouncing evil and doing good. He warned that if the people continued in their evil ways, the nation would be destroyed. Still, for saying that he was condemned and thrown into a muddy cistern to die (Jer. 38:6). Jesus spoke of waging war against evil and of bringing fire of judgement on the wicked; but for talking like that, he was baptized with death (Lk. 12:50).

In the nations of the world, we have heard of or seen kings, queens, and presidents who feel that they are above the law. No one can oppose them, and anyone who dares is ridiculed, called names, and condemned. We have seen or heard of children, immigrants, and the poor being hounded and pushed around like sheep without a shepherd, and we feel powerless. We lack the courage and the willpower to speak out or take action against unjust situations for fear of repercussions and repression. And yet our Christian duties call us to stand up and speak out. To be courageous and speak the truth to power, no matter the outcome. We are ambassadors for Christ who are to be the voice to the voiceless and to be our brothers’ keepers. Our baptism enjoins us to identify with the widows and orphans, the downtrodden and the helpless, and be a sign of hope to the hopeless. How can we help the poor if we are afraid to identify with them? How can we be like Jesus in our willingness to set the world on fire with love if we are unwilling to act when we need to? Christians must not allow fear to turn them into cowards and weaklings. Why be afraid when Christ has warned us time and time again not to be?

History has taught us that each time a person stands up for what is right and speaks out against injustice, segregation, nepotism, racism, and intimidation, ripples of hope are sent forth, and these ripples can build up into waves that can sweep down the mightiest walls of resistance. Martin Luther King, Jr. stood up and fought against racism and segregation, though he paid the ultimate price; we are reaping some benefits of his resistance, albeit in small increments. Yes, our loyalty to Christ’s teaching is sure to rock the boat, causing divisions. “I have come for divisions” (Lk 12:52), Christ warns. The Church must not allow the power of the media, political powers, and the popular voices in the streets to drown the teaching of Christ, even if it is unpopular. The Church must hold on to its moral power of being both mother and teacher. For the division Christ talks about is because “The light came into the world, but people preferred darkness to light, because their works were evil.” (Jn. 3:19). We must be light carriers at all times and allow the power of our light to set the world ablaze with love. Even if our collective efforts for good should cause us to be dropped into the muddy cistern of opposition like Jeremiah, we should be rest assured that a Cushite will come to deliver us from the pangs of death and abandonment (Jer. 38:10). We must fight on keeping our eyes on the prize of the joy that lies ahead. Why? Because a cloud of witnesses surrounds us (Heb. 12:1-2). Let us take consolation from these heroes and heroines of our faith. Let us ask them to intercede for us so that we may have the courage to speak truth to power and alleviate some of the sufferings of the world. May we never be afraid to choose the Lord, for though the cost of discipleship may be enormous, it will guarantee our peace and joy. For Christ has assured us this much: “I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.” (Jn. 16:33). Amen.  

Fr. Augustine Etemma Inwang, MSP

August 10, 2025; 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

Readings: Wisdom 18:6-9; Heb. 11:1-2, 8-19; Lk 12:32-48

Our Faith will not disappoint us

The theme of today’s readings is faith. Abraham is considered our father in faith for a reason; he was tested repeatedly by God, yet his faith remained unshaken. The first reading describes how the children of Israel waited in faith to be led out of slavery in Egypt and into the promised land. They placed their faith in Moses and followed him, believing that God was in control of their destiny. Faith is defined in the second reading as “The realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen.” The Catechism teaches that “Faith is both a gift of God and a human act in response to God. In faith, the human intellect and will cooperate with divine grace. Believing is an act of the intellect that assents to the divine truth by the command of the will, moved by God through grace.” Thus, it is right to say that because Abraham cooperated with the grace of God, it became possible—though not easy—for him to obey God.

Our faith should dispose us to be responsive to the needs of others. Believing in God should not instill fear but prepare us to obey His commands as we await the kingdom willingly. The Gospel refers to us as the ‘Little flock’ who should rejoice because it pleased our Lord to bestow the kingdom upon us. Hence, we must remain vigilant, as we do not know precisely when the Lord will come. We should be prepared, not preoccupied with accumulating treasures for ourselves, but instead sharing what we have with others. Therefore, we should always be on duty, like servants awaiting the arrival of their master. Spending our time idly, engaging in harmful actions, harboring grudges, and being overly anxious about material concerns will distract us from the time we should spend in prayer and in doing good.

Since our faith is a gift from God, we should treasure it. We have been endowed with various gifts, such as intelligence, counseling, teaching, singing, and helping. We must use these gifts in service to others; failing to do so will hold us accountable before God’s judgment. To whom much is given, much will be required. We must test our faith just as God tested Abraham. Our faith should be active, practical, and trustworthy. Abraham is an example of someone who hoped against hope and never gave up. He received a command to move to an unknown land, trusted God, and obeyed without question. When he and his wife were well past childbearing age, God fulfilled His promise, granting them a son, Isaac. When God asked him to sacrifice Isaac, he complied without hesitation. However, God intervened, providing a ram for the sacrifice in place of his son.

God made a promise to Abraham, assuring him that He would always be present with him and his descendants, as long as they remained faithful. While God never reneges on His promises, we often turn our backs on Him. Today, Jesus renews this promise, urging us not to be afraid. We must live in faith, hope, joy, and peace, confident that God is always with us. Fear and anxiety are signs that we do not trust God and each other.

Today, Jesus reminds us of the importance of having strong faith. If our faith is robust, we have nothing to fear; nothing should shake or disturb us. We can be like Abraham, who lived peacefully and without fear due to his trust in the Lord. “Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever.” (Ps. 125:1). No matter what demands our faith places upon us or what God asks of us, we must trust in the Lord who promised us the kingdom. God will always be faithful to His promises because He is the Lord who never fails.

Let us pray that we may effectively use the gifts God has given us and lead lives free from fear. Our commitment to prayer, fidelity to baptismal promises, devotion to the Eucharist, faithfulness to other sacraments, and dedication to one another will assure us of the kingdom promised to us by Christ. May it be so now and always. Amen.

Fr. Augustine Etemma Inwang, MSP

August 03, 2025; 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

Readings: Eccl. 1:2; 2:21-23; Col 3:1-5, 9-11; Lk 12:13-21

In His Riches Man Lacks Wisdom!

Today’s readings address the rich and those who pursue wealth as their only reason to exist on earth. Vanity of vanities, all things are vanity. Vain persons are excessively proud in their admiration of their appearances or achievements, often to the point of being conceited. They have an inflated sense of self-importance and tend to exhibit feelings of superiority. Vanity refers to the quality of being worthless or futile. The Preacher in the first reading urges us to reflect on the futility, uselessness, pointlessness, and fruitlessness of life when the sole aim is to amass wealth. “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?” (Mk. 8:36). No matter how rich we may be and how contented our achievements may make us feel, a day will come when we leave it all to others.

The second reading offers us a solution to a life of vanity. It exhorts us to set our hearts on the next life, where we hope to behold the face of God. “If you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Think of what is above, not what is on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ. When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory.” (Col. 3:1-4). We may be whatever we want and achieve whatever we dream, but we must not lose sight of the reason for our existence. The Penny Catechism reminds us that we were created to know, love, and serve God in this world so that we may be happy with Him in the next. Therefore, we must put to death immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed. We must stop lying and be sincere and honest in our dealings with one another. (Cf. Col. 3:5-17).

In the Gospel, Jesus warns against inordinate greed and lust for material things that have blinded many people, turning them into narcissistic, arrogant, selfish, conceited, self-important, opinionated, egotistic, and superior individuals. They appear admirable to themselves and their close associates, but they are often viewed as despicable and intolerable by others. Their focus is entirely on themselves, and everything centers around their interests. “I shall tear down my barns and build larger ones. There I shall store all my grain and other goods, and I shall say to myself, “Now as for you, you have so many good things stored up for many years, rest, eat, drink, be merry!” (Lk. 12:18-19). Yet Christ warns: “Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions.” (Lk. 12:15). How much is enough for the rich of this world? Why can’t they heed the wisdom of Job: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I shall return there.” (Job 1:21). How have you used your wealth to store up riches for yourselves so that you may be rich in what matters to God? Christ admonishes: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroy, and thieves break in and steal. But store up treasures in heaven where neither moth nor decay destroys, nor thieves break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.” (Mt. 6:19-21). To do this properly, you must share what you have with those in need. Remember, you are merely a steward of your wealth. In giving to others, you give to God, and your treasures are stored up for you in heaven.

These readings affirm that we brought nothing into this world, and we will take nothing out of it.  “Those who trust in their wealth and boast of the vastness of their riches should know that no man buys his own ransom or pays a price to God for his life. He cannot buy life without end, nor avoid coming to the grave. He knows that wise men and fools must both perish and must leave their wealth to others” (Ps. 49).

A story that captures the essence of today’s readings is that of Alexander the Great. As emperor of the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedon, he led numerous military campaigns and established one of the largest empires in history, spanning from Greece to India, all before the age of 30. On his deathbed, he reflected on the vast empire he had built and the spoils of war he had accumulated. He descended into depression, realizing that nothing was worth it; even after a life filled with success, he could not avoid death. He wished for one last meeting with his mother, but understood that this was not possible. Therefore, he summoned his loyal generals and made three last wishes before he died. “I have three last wishes; please carry them out, for I will soon depart. My first wish is that my doctors should carry my coffin alone. My second wish is that the path to my grave should be strewn with gold, silver, and all the precious possessions in my treasury as my body is brought for burial. My third and final wish is that both my hands should be left hanging out of my coffin.”

The Generals, who were startled by the three wishes, asked Alexander about the strange wishes. Alexander told them, “I want my doctors to carry my coffin to let all know that no doctor can cure anybody. They are powerless and cannot save a person from death. The strewn gold, silver, and other precious stones on the way to the graveyard, to let the people know that though I spent all my life accumulating riches, not even a grain of gold will come with me when I leave this world. It is a sheer waste of time, energy, and peace of mind when one yearns to be rich. Having my hands dangling out of the coffin, I want people to know that I came empty-handed into this world and likewise will go empty-handed from this world.

Alexander wanted to teach the rest of the world that earthly possessions are not worth it, and one must not crave them. We came empty-handed and will die empty-handed. What else can I say! In his riches, man lacks wisdom; he is like the beasts that are destroyed. “If you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.” May we be wise with how we use material things so that God may welcome us into his dwelling to join Him in glory! Amen.

Rev. Augustine Etemma Inwang, MSP

July 20, 2025; 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time (C)

                                         Readings: Gen 18:1-10; Col 1:24-28; Lk 10:38-42

Prayer and Hospitality are not mutually exclusive!

  Last Sunday, we reflected on the story of the Good Samaritan. The parable was prompted by a question by the teacher of the law to Jesus, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus answered him, “What is written in the law? How do you read it?” The lawyer’s answer was “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself”. Jesus told him, “Do this and you will live”. Since the parable of the Good Samaritan emphasizes love of neighbor, today’s readings highlight the love of “the Lord, your God”. God must always be first in our lives, and we owe God adoration, loyalty, and worship. Prayer in all its ramifications is a must for all Christians, and nothing should take the place of giving God his due, our time, our talent, our treasure, and our all.

In the first reading, Abraham showed hospitality to strangers. He offered them a place to rest and a meal to provide them with strength to continue their journey. His kindness and hospitality did not go unrewarded. God promised his wife a child: “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah will then have a son” (Gen. 18:10). God revealed to Abraham that he was on his way to Sodom and Gomorrah to destroy them due to their iniquities. This allowed Abraham to intercede on behalf of Lot, his nephew, for the land. God comes to us in many ways every day as a beggar on the street corner, a stranger in need of shelter, immigrants running away from starvation and oppressive and repressive government, the rich in need of a friend, or the lonely in need of consolation and love. Like Abraham, Mary, and Martha, we must reach out to them, for in helping them, we assist God himself. “So long as you did it for the least of my people, you did it for me” (Mt. 25:40). When we give God our time in prayer and respond in generosity and hospitality to Him, God takes us into confidence and provides for us beyond our wildest dreams. Spending time in prayer is not a waste of time, but a time well spent, freed to do things well with our power, strength, blessings, and integrity. Prayer, according to St. Therese of Lisieux, “Is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and love, embracing both trial and joy”. Do not ever say you are too busy to pray.

Jesus is not condemning Martha for taking care of his physical needs, but Martha’s attitude in doing so. She allowed herself to be anxious, worried, and distracted by her serving to the point of feeling that what she did was far more important than Mary’s. “Stop worrying, then, over questions like, ‘What are we to eat, or what are we to drink, or what are we to wear’? The unbelievers are always running after these things. Your heavenly Father knows all that you need. Seek first his kingship over you, his way of holiness, and all these things will be given to you besides. Enough, then, of worrying about tomorrow. Let tomorrow take care of itself. Today has troubles enough of its own” (Mt. 6:31-34). Christ is telling us that we can be both Martha and Mary without sacrificing one for the other. Lydia made the right combination, responding like both Mary and Martha. First, she “listened” to the Gospel message preached by Paul and then offered hospitality to him and his companions (Acts 16:14-15).

To be truly hospitable, we must have clarity of action, and that clarity can only come through prayer. Prayer enables us to attune to the spirit of God, to contemplate his blessings, and to recognize that in giving to those in need, be it our time, our talent, or treasure, we reciprocate God’s hospitality and kindness to us. In practicing hospitality, we recognize that we are only stewards of what we have been gifted. Praying like Mary, who sat at the feet of Jesus and listened to Him, helps us recognize first in our hearts the Jesus that we must serve in the poor. Yes, we are urged to be both Mary and Martha, for it is in praying like Mary and serving like Martha that our life will truly be complete.

Today’s Gospel also reminds us, according to John Rose, that “Substitution of our daily duties and responsibilities with religious activities is not commendable. A father of a family, who instead of working and earning for the family, spends needless time in the church, is to be discouraged”. Similarly, a mother who spends all her time in church praying to the detriment of her family should be reprimanded. Prayer, religious and social activities are good and highly encouraged on their own, but the family and the good of the children should not be sacrificed on their altars. There is always time for Mary and time for Martha. We can be both, and we should strive to be both. Prayer and work must be combined in a healthy way to strike a balance in our lives. We must learn to discharge our social responsibility with equanimity, and at the same time, we must make the time to sit at the feet of Jesus to learn from him how to be meek and gentle of heart. May Christ, the good teacher, teach us to find peace and balance in our lives, free from anxiety, worries, and distraction. Amen.

Rev. Augustine Etemma Inwang, MSP

July 13, 2025; 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C).

                             Readings: Deut. 30:10-14; Col. 1:15-20; Lk. 10: 25-37.

Be a Good Samaritan!

The command “Go and do likewise” was given by Christ at the end of this morning’s Gospel reading. It was directed at the teacher of the law and means ‘go and love, even your enemies, and be kind to those you encounter on the journey of life.’ Christ used the story of the Good Samaritan, who showed kindness to someone he did not know, as an example in His parable.

This raises questions: Why did Christ refer to the man from Samaria as ‘good’? What was the nature of the acrimonious, rancorous, and malicious relationship that spurred so much animosity between the Jews and the Samaritans? The Jews felt very uncomfortable mentioning the Samaritans, and the feeling was mutual. Why? A brief history helps clarify these questions. The Samaritans descended from the Israelites of the northern tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, two of the twelve sons of Jacob, who was also known as Israel. Jacob’s twelve sons were Reuben, Simeon, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Benjamin, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Ephraim, and Manasseh, which formed the twelve tribes of Israel. According to Pablo T. Gadenz in his commentary on ‘The Gospel of Luke,’ Jews regarded the Samaritans as having doubtful lineage due to intermarriage with Gentile peoples who the Assyrians brought in after they conquered the northern kingdom in 721 B.C. and sent some Israelites into exile (2 Kings 17:6-24; 2 Chron 30:6-11).

In addition to these ethnic tensions, a long-standing religious divide existed because the Samaritans worshiped on Mount Gerizim rather than at the Jerusalem Temple (John 4:20). Around 111 B.C., the Hasmonean Jewish ruler John Hyrcanus destroyed the Samaritan temple on Mount Gerizim. Later, under the Roman Prefect Coponius (A.D. 6-9), some Samaritans retaliated by scattering human bones in the Jerusalem temple during Passover, thus defiling it. Furthermore, during the tenure of Cumanus as Roman procurator (A.D. 48-52), Samaritans from the border village of Ginae killed a group of Galileans who were passing through Samaria on their way to Jerusalem for a feast. This then explains the animosity and hatred between these two groups, who were, in essence, brothers from the same family, yet unable to rise above their tribal sentiments.

In contrast, Jesus tirelessly sought to forge a truce between the two factions. To answer the question, “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus told the parable of the Good Samaritan, who took care of a man, beaten and left half dead on a perilous road. The priest and the Levite could not help the man for fear of becoming defiled, whereas the Samaritan bravely approached, spent his time and money, and offered his donkey to transport the man. He even lodged him in an inn and promised to return to check on his well-being. The lawyer who recognized the Samaritan (as the one who showed mercy) as the man’s neighbor was instructed to “Go and do likewise.”

The first reading encourages us to follow this command by heeding the voice of the Lord, keeping His commandments and statutes as outlined in the book of the law. It reminds us that this commandment is inscribed in our hearts, readily accessible. We do not need a teacher to show us how to love, forgive, and be human. The second reading urges us to see in Jesus Christ the image of the invisible God. If God is our Father and Jesus Christ our brother, we must treat everyone as brothers and sisters. Everyone is our neighbor, regardless of ethnic background, creed, color, or language. No one should be considered a stranger on Mother Earth, as God’s blessings are abundant for all if we only cultivate love in our hearts.

A neighbor is anyone who shows concern, mercy, and compassion to those in need, regardless of their material, social, ethnic, or racial status. Such a person embodies universal love and acceptance; they may be uneducated or educated, an immigrant or a native-born citizen, a Republican or a Democrat, religious, agnostic, or atheist. By demonstrating love for all individuals, they reflect love for both God and humanity, serving as a model for all Christians.

The Good Samaritan showed mercy through his care for the wounded man. Catholic tradition emphasizes these corporal works of mercy, which include feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, clothing the naked, welcoming the stranger, and visiting the imprisoned (cf. Isa 58:6-7; Matt. 25:31-46). It also highlights spiritual works of mercy such as instructing others in the faith, practicing fraternal correction, providing advice or consolation to those in need, forgiving those who wrong us, and praying for the living and the dead.

As you consider your own actions, what works of mercy can you perform to love your neighbor?

There is a story by an unknown author about an old man who carried a small can of oil with him wherever he went. If he encountered a door that squeaked, he would apply a little oil to the hinges; if a gate was difficult to open, he would oil the latch. Thus, he journeyed through life, easing the burdens of those who came after him.

 

Many lives creak, squeak, and grate harshly day by day. They need to be lubricated with the oil of kindness, gentleness, or thoughtfulness. That can of oil is one of the predominant characteristics of a Christian life. Such a can of oil we are to carry around with us at all times. So, go and do likewise!   

Rev. Augustine Etemma Inwang

July 06, 2025; 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

                                  Readings: Is. 66:10-14; Gal. 6:14-18; Lk. 10: 1-12, 17-20.

Christ has given us the Power.

“Behold, I have given you the power to ‘tread upon serpents’ and scorpions and upon the full force of the enemy, and nothing will harm you” (Lk. 10:20).  This was the response of Jesus to the seventy-two on their return from their mission in today’s Gospel. He reminded them that the power to succeed was given to them from above. They should rejoice not because of their accomplishments but because it pleased the Father to count them among his chosen ones. Whatever we are, whoever we are, and whatever we have achieved is not our own making but a gift from God above.

Today, Jesus reminds us that we are called to share his power. He has entrusted this power to us. The power to give peace to the world: “Into whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this household’” (Lk . 10:8). Amid our woes and vicissitude, we are empowered to bring peace, succor, harmony, concord, sympathy, and empathy to the world. The power that Christ has gifted us with is enormous indeed. We are empowered to bring goodness to the world, offer forgiveness to our enemies, bring the bread of life to those spiritually weak, the real bread to the hungry, words of consolation to weary hearts, and healing to the sick.

But how can we be so empowered and yet feel so powerless? How can we be entrusted with so much while we feel so helpless? Little wonder we are easily intimidated by the known and the unknown forces, for we do not know and find it challenging to recognize our power. Could it be that we doubt the source of our power? The Sacrament of Baptism empowers us to become God’s adopted children and his ambassadors. The Holy Eucharist empowers us to feed the hungry with the bread of life. The Sacrament of Confirmation confers on us the right to be God’s messengers of truth and defenders of the faith to the point of shedding our blood. In the Sacrament of Penance, we are given the power to share in God's forgiving power, acknowledge our sins, confess them, and receive God’s mercy and forgiveness. “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if you withhold forgiveness from anyone, it is withheld” (Jn. 20:23). The Sacrament of Holy Orders confers on the ministerial priesthood the power to change ordinary bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ through the process of transubstantiation. Through the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony, couples are empowered and invited to experience the union and bliss of the Blessed Trinity, bringing forth a family of love, justice, and peace in the world. Finally, the Sacrament of the Sick prepares us to recover and heal from sickness, and to be admitted into the presence of God our Father, to behold His beatific vision. “Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven” (James 5:14-15). Through the power of preaching the Word, “Even the devils are subject to us because of your name” (Lk. 10:17). There is power in the name of Jesus.

The power Christ gives us is not military power wrought by the brute force of a gun or political power achieved through campaigns and demagoguery, lies and false promises to garner votes and be elected into office; neither is it authoritative power of dominance nor divide and rule strategy that seeks to dominate and suppress our collective will; it is the power of love, humility, and service. It is the power of limitation and poverty for the sake of the kingdom that gives up earthly and worldly things in pursuit of heavenly realities. “Behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way” (Lk. 10:3). This power of freedom does not tolerate delays and encumbrances with material acquisitions: they are hindrances to the spread of the Gospel. To be so empowered means dying to self, and so become a new creature (Gal. 6:15). It is only those who enjoy a new mode of existence of love brought about by the cross of Christ who himself “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mt. 20:28) who are so empowered; and they must always rejoice and be happy. Our power, so to speak, comes from the freedom of the Spirit in union with Christ.  Dying to ourselves empowers us to fight our demons, conquer our insatiable desire for earthly power, and overcome our personal enemies, such as avarice, ambition, envy, anger, and pride. We have the promise of Jesus to accomplish this: “I have given you the power to tread underfoot serpents and scorpions and the whole strength of the enemy” (Lk . 10:19-20). Why are we afraid of using the power freely given to us by Christ to dominate the kingdom of the evil one?

On their return, the disciples are delighted at their success, but Jesus counsels them to rejoice, because their names were written in heaven. Rejoicing in our success is a testament to personal glory and achievement. I can do nothing on my own, but “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). We are to rejoice, like the children of Israel, in the first reading, because of what God has done in and through us. Let us pray at this Mass for the spirit and freedom to give God all the glory. May we respond to his call to build the kingdom of peace and justice in the world, for “The Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” (Lk . 4:18-19). With Psalm 66, let us pray: “Shout joyfully to God, all the earth, sing praise to the glory of his name, and proclaim his glorious praise. Say to God, “How tremendous are your deeds!  

Rev. Augustine Etemma Inwang, MSP

June 22, 2025, Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, (Year C)

                                     Readings: Gen. 14:18-20; 1 Cor. 11:23-26; Lk. 9:11-17

Christ, the Bread of Life!

Today is the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ – Corpus Christi. In partaking of the Eucharist, we receive the food of Angels. “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world” (Jn. 6:51). In the blessed Eucharist, Christ himself is offered and received, and in Him, the Church continues to live and grow. The sacrifice of the Eucharist memorializes the death and resurrection of the Lord, perpetuating the sacrifice of the cross. This is the summit and source of all worship and Christian life. Through the Eucharist, the unity of God’s people is both signified and realized, contributing to the building up of the body of Christ. “Christ’s faithful are to hold the blessed Eucharist in the highest honor. They should take an active part in the celebration of the most august sacrifice of the Mass; they should receive the sacrament with great devotion, frequently, and should reverence it with the utmost adoration. In explaining the doctrine of this sacrament, pastors are to assiduously instruct the faithful about their obligations in this regard” (C. 898).

In the first reading, Melchizedek, the king of Salem, exchanged bread with Abram, forming a fellowship between them. In the Gospel, Jesus feeds the hungry with five loaves and a few fish. In the second reading, Jesus gives Himself as food and drink, making Himself available to us in a perpetual sacrifice for the nourishment of our souls. We are Christians because of the resurrection of Christ, but Catholics because of the Eucharist. Food is an absolute necessity for our bodies, and so is the Eucharist for our spiritual life. “Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you do not have life within you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day” (Jn. 6:54). By eating the Body of Christ, we become the living Christ. We recognize our closeness and blessedness, acknowledge our brokenness, and live for the benefit of others. Thus, we, like Christ, become food for the world.

When we receive Christ in the Eucharist, we identify our pains and joys with Christ. We believe that the Eucharist we receive is greater and more powerful than anything in the world. If we genuinely believe in what we receive, it will change us. It will make us holy, forgiving, loving, merciful, compassionate, devoted, caring, charitable, and more human and humane. The Eucharist will transform us. By eating the food of angels, we strive to behave like angels because we become what we eat.

The teaching of the Church on the Eucharist is clear: “Our Lord is truly, really, and substantially present in the Holy Eucharist.” Hence, Christ said, “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him. Just as the living Father sent me and I have life because of the Father, so also the one who feeds on me will have life because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven.” (Jn. 6:57-58). When some of His disciples stopped following Him, Christ did not plead with them to stay. Instead, He asked His apostles, “Do you also want to leave?” (Jn. 6:67). According to Pope John Paul II, this teaching “Is at the heart of the Church, the secret of her vigor; she must keep watch with jealous care over this mystery and affirm it in its fullness.” Therefore, we should prepare ourselves for fruitful participation at Mass. It is recommended that we go through the readings in advance, examine our consciences for any mortal sins we need to confess, and confess them if we plan to receive Holy Communion. This will enable us to receive the Eucharist in a timely and devoted manner.

After receiving Holy Communion, our Lord remains present in us as long as the species of bread and wine remain, which typically lasts about 8 to 10 minutes. According to the Sacred Congregation for the Sacraments and Divine Worship, “The faithful should not forget to make a proper thanksgiving after Communion. They may do this during the celebration with a period of silence, a hymn, a Psalm, or another song of praise, or also after the celebration, if possible, by staying behind to pray for a suitable time.”

After Mass, the priest dismisses the people with one of three phrases: “Go forth, the Mass is ended,” “Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord,” or “Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.” This invitation encourages us to share the Christ we have received in the Eucharist with everyone. We must share Christ, the bread of life, with the poor, the homeless, the sick, the saints, and sinners alike. We must continually make Christ, broken and received, available in our lives and keep Him fresh at all times. May we offer this bread to those in need of healing for their broken bodies, to public sinners, and to everyone longing for hope.

Rev. Augustine Etemma Inwang, MSP

June 15, 2025, Trinity Sunday – Solemnity (Year C)

 

Readings: Proverbs 8:22-31; Romans 5:1-5; John 16:12-15

Love is the Essence of the Trinity

Today, we celebrate the feast of the Most Holy Trinity. We worship God, who manifested himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We worship three persons in one God: God the Father, the creator of the world; God the Son, the Savior of the world; and God the Holy Spirit, the sanctifier and the one who leads us to all truth. Today, we also celebrate Father’s Day, a day set aside to pay tribute to the fathers in our lives. They, with our mothers and in cooperation with the Triune God, brought us to birth in this world. Thank you for your love and guidance and for providing for our well-being. May God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit bless, protect, and reward you all abundantly.

The aim of this reflection is not to give a theological exposé on the Trinity but rather to aid us in making the Trinity a part of our lives. We begin every prayer by calling on God the Father, the Son, and the Spirit to dwell in us and help us live good and saintly lives. We were baptized into the Trinity, and on the day of our death, our coffin and grave will be blessed and marked by the sign of the Cross. We begin and end every prayer by calling on the blessed Trinity to be the beginning and end of all we do and say and to guide our steps on the right path. The life of every Christian is marked by the Triune God dwelling in and through us.

The Trinity is a mystery that presents us with a God of closeness, communion, and intimacy. We see God, who desires community, communication, and love within the persons of the Trinity. According to William J. Bausch, “This is an initiating God, an outgoing God, a creative, life-giving God who stamps his communal life on us. We are in a relationship because God is; we are made in his image and likeness.” There is absolute love, respect, and understanding within the persons of the Trinity. The unity of mind and purpose is enjoyed and expressed in the Trinity. God loves the world so much that He gave His Son to redeem it. In giving his Son, God the Father also gave himself because the Father and the Son are in perfect communion. They are one in Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the origin of the mutual relationship and expression of love between the Father and the Son.

The mystery of the Trinity is seen in the intimate relationship between the persons, where each person is perfectly transparent to the other. In this love relationship, there are no hiding places; none of the three keeps anything as his own, and no one takes particular pride in individual achievements. All enjoy the success of one; everything is shared, communicated, given, and welcomed. Nothing and no person of the Trinity is ever taken for granted. The love seen in the Trinity is not jealous, not conceited, and certainly not boastful. It is a reciprocal love where the duty of one is the duty of all. Therefore, in the act attributed to God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are equally present and cooperate in the execution of that task. The love of the Trinity is transformative and redemptive, creative, and generative. It is salvific love that assures humanity’s redemption from decadence and despair. This is agape love.

This is the kind of love that should be experienced in the family, between husband and wife. The children are the expression of that love. Let us pray that we may demonstrate the love of the Trinity in our dealings with one another, in our relationships, and even in our ministries in the Church. We pray that the Trinity may teach the leaders of nations to be civil in their utterances and that there may be mutual respect and tolerance among people and nations of the world. May the Trinity teach us that whatever we do is done not for ourselves but for the love of him who created us. May the Trinity teach us to love as they love themselves, so that we may show our love in service to humanity and our Church. Amen.

One way that we can express our union with the Trinity is by taking the time to bless ourselves with the sign of the Cross. Are you proud to make the sign of the Cross openly, or are you ashamed and afraid to identify yourself as a Catholic? Please make sure to teach your children to make the sign of the Cross before and after meals, before they go to bed, and when they awake. Another application of the Trinity in our lives is to pray the basic prayers of the Trinity with devotion and faith. The prayers like Gloria, the Creed, and Glory be to the Father (Doxology). We should be proud of our faith by showing people around us that we are not just Christians but proud Catholic Christians. In the Bible, Jesus says, “Whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and the glory of the Father and the holy angels.” (Lk. 9: 26). May we never be ashamed of Christ and his Gospel. Amen.

Rev. Augustine Etemma Inwang, MSP

June 08, 2025, Pentecost Sunday - Solemnity (Year C)

                     Readings: Acts 2:1-11; Romans 8:8-17; John 14:15-16, 23 -26

Fire up!

Today is Pentecost, the birthday of the Church. Today, the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles like flames of fire. The first reading reported what happened: “When the day of Pentecost came, all the believers were gathered together in one place. Suddenly, there was a noise from the sky, which sounded like a strong wind blowing, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then, they saw what looked like tongues of fire, which spread out and touched each person there. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to talk in other languages, as the Spirit enabled them to speak” (Acts 2:1-4). Pentecost completes the saving work of Christ and empowers the Apostles to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth. The Holy Spirit ignited a passion within the Apostles to preach the Gospel boldly, transforming them into martyrs of the faith. Peter’s message on Pentecost was so compelling that those who heard him “Were deeply troubled and asked, 'What shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). Many of those who heard him “Believed his message and were baptized, and about three thousand people were added to their group that day.” (Acts 2:41).

The apostles needed the fire of the Holy Spirit to shake them up and transform them into warriors for the faith. Christ is present in his apostles through his Spirit. Like Charles Shultz once said, “The whole trouble with you is, you don’t know what the whole trouble with you is.” This feeling of not knowing our need for the Spirit makes us weak in faith. Our Church does not resemble the Church of the Day of Pentecost. If it did, why is the Church on fire, and we are not consumed? One reason may be that there is too much focus on money. We tend to spend less time discussing spiritual matters and more time on finances and fundraising. This shift certainly detracts from the power of the Spirit within the Church. To the lame beggar, Peter said: “I have no money at all, but I give you what I have: in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, I order you to get up and walk!” (Acts 3:6). Now, we may have an abundance of money but lack the fire of the Spirit that can effect real change in the lives of our people.

We need the Holy Spirit to ignite in our hearts a fire of tolerance, a passion to combat indifference, and a constructive fire to build the community of God’s people. This fire should not represent pettiness, apathy, or jealousy, nor should it burn with bigotry or hatred, or foster destruction and mistrust. Instead, we seek the fire of love that will recreate the face of the earth. Come, Holy Spirit, and fill the hearts of the faithful; renew the face of the earth. Help us to conquer indifference in the world and to address the internal struggles of the flesh, which include immorality, impurity, licentiousness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, rivalry, jealousy, outbursts of fury, acts of selfishness, dissensions, factions, and occasions of envy (Gal 5:19-21).

Send us the fire of the Spirit to plant in our hearts the fruits of the Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal 5:22-23). The fire of the Spirit will give us the seven gifts of wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength, knowledge, fear of the Lord, and the delight in fearing the Lord (Is. 11:2-3). Until we have the Spirit, the Church will be ineffective; the fire within us will be lukewarm without flame, causing it to extinguish. Instead of warmth, we will feel cold; in place of vigor, we will feel weak, empty, miserable, sad, unhappy, lifeless, and dead.

Erma Bombeck told a story about a little boy in Church with his mother. He was a quiet and well-behaved boy who didn’t cause problems. Occasionally, he would stand up in the pew, turn around, and smile at the people behind him. His infectious smile would soon draw smiles back from others. Everything was fine until his mother noticed what he was doing. She took him by the ear, twisted it slightly, told him to sit down, and reminded him that he was in Church. He began to sniffle and cry, to which his mother responded, “That’s better.” This reflects the kind of Church many are comfortable with—a sad and lifeless place where everyone sits withdrawn with solemn faces as if in mourning. It is no wonder our churches feel empty and uninviting.

People no longer attend Church because we fail to offer them anything meaningful; we preach a gospel devoid of good news. Our sermons lack substance and are poorly delivered, leaving everyone uninspired instead of igniting a passion for action. The joy of the Gospel is absent from faces because the fire of love is missing from our hearts. Those who attend Church are no longer burning with zest, zeal, passion, and fervor that characterized the Day of Pentecost.

Filled with the Holy Spirit, the Apostles went out and preached the Word, embodying the life of the Spirit and bearing the fruit of love. They spoke in tongues, the language of love in praise of God. The Church must speak the language of love today; without it, we cannot be on fire with faith. Let us pray that we may be filled with the fire of the Spirit, which will transform us into people of faith, courageous preachers, and lovers of God and His people, making a difference in the world. Indifferent people cannot build a better world. God bless you!

 

Rev. Augustine Etemma Inwang, MSP